By John Q. Hosedrinker 
A recent joint study utilizing 2022 census data from both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland reveals that the island’s population has reached 7.1 million, a figure unseen since the 19th century. The Republic’s population accounts for 5.15 million, while Northern Ireland is home to 1.91 million. Notably, Northern Ireland exhibits a higher population density and a slightly older median age compared to the Republic. Furthermore, the data indicates a higher proportion of individuals aged 65 and over in Northern Ireland and a slight imbalance in the sex ratio, with more females than males.
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Ireland’s population reaches 7 million for the first time since the 19th century, a significant milestone for the island nation. It’s fascinating to consider the historical context of this achievement. The population had been decimated by the Great Famine and subsequent emigration, so to see it rebound to this level is a testament to resilience and change. The official census figures include both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland, a detail often overlooked but essential for a complete picture.
The initial shock might be the seemingly small number of people, especially when you consider the global reach of Irish culture. It does seem small when compared to other countries. But, and here’s a crucial point, the number doesn’t tell the whole story, because it doesn’t account for the immense Irish diaspora. There are millions of people of Irish descent living all over the world. Perhaps, even billions!
That leads to some interesting observations: One person mentioned the traffic and the popularity of buses going to and from the airport. That’s completely understandable with a relatively small island and a growing population, coupled with the many people living in the country. Many tourists will frequent the place as well, and with so many Irish people traveling abroad, it’s clear that airport traffic will be high.
The fact that a significant portion of the population is comprised of immigrants is another key takeaway. The growth is largely driven by immigration. More than one in five residents of the Republic of Ireland weren’t born there. This influx of people from other countries is reshaping the demographic makeup of Ireland.
Of course, some discussion can’t help but go a little sideways into a general assessment of the Irish people, which provides some interesting insights into societal attitudes. It’s a pretty diverse place and as an English person, the reception would generally be positive, especially if you approach it with an open mind and respect. The existing British people who immigrate to Ireland comprise the largest group, so an Englishman may not be an outlier.
There’s also a lot of talk about the diaspora, the Irish people living abroad. It seems to be a point of pride, and with the many Irish pubs and cultural hubs around the world, the Irish influence is clear. This global presence is part of the Irish identity. The pubs are a clear indicator of this. This is why Irish culture is so prevalent around the world, especially in places that used to be part of the British empire, like the US or Canada.
The language is also a consideration, as a lot of the natives may not speak Irish. In fact, only about a hundred thousand people in the native tongue. So you’ll be fine if you speak English!
In terms of being welcome, as a foreigner, the important thing is just to be respectful, sound, and not an outright jerk. You’ll fit in. So long as you are cool. It might be tough to find a place to live, though, housing can be challenging. The housing situation is something frequently mentioned in discussions about living in Ireland.
The history is also an important consideration. The Famine and its aftermath profoundly shaped Ireland. The memory of the British Empire and the oppression they inflicted is still very present. This may be a sensitive topic for some. The impact of the famine on the country, the subsequent independence, and the long road to rebuilding are all factors that contribute to the current situation.
It’s also worth noting the cultural nuances. Some people do acknowledge a certain level of racism, but for the most part, the attitude is that you’ll be alright if you’re generally friendly. A little bit of sound advice. Ultimately, a country’s population reaching seven million tells a story of growth and change. The current population is a result of a complicated interplay of history, immigration, and cultural identity.