Northern Ireland population above 1.75 million

Between mid-2006 and mid-2007 the number of people living in Northern Ireland increased by 17,500 people (1.0%) the Statistics and Research Agency said today.

The size of the resident population in Northern Ireland at 30 June 2007 is estimated to be 1.759 million people. The 1% increase in population between July 2006 and June 2007 is estimated to be as a result of the following factors:

• Natural growth of 9,100 people (23,800) births and 14,700 deaths)
• Net migration gain in Northern Ireland of 9,800 people (32,300 people came to Northern Ireland to live and 22,500 people left)
• A net loss of 1,400 Her Majesty’s Forces stationed in Northern Ireland.

In the three years from 2004 to 2007, Northern Ireland has seen a net migration gain of 26,000 people; equivalent to around 1.5% of t he population or a town the size of Coleraine. In contrast from 1974 to 1977 Northern Ireland witnessed a net migration loss of 28,000 people. Responding to the findings a NISRA spokesperson said:

“Between July 2006 and June 2007 Northern Ireland’s population grew by over 17,000 people. Northern Ireland has seen significant migration since European Union expansion in 2004 and migration now contributes marginally more to population growth in Northern Ireland than natural change”.

Alongside the mid-2007 population estimates NISRA has published a migration report examining the number of migrants coming to Northern Ireland. Further details can be found on our migration press release.

Notes to Editors:

1. The Northern Ireland mid year population estimate relates to the usually resident population of Northern Ireland including her Majesty’s Forces stationed here. Births and deaths recorded are those registered by the General Register Office between mid 2006 and mid-2007.
2. Migration estimates relate to long-term migrants only. A long-term migrant is defined as someone who changes their residence for a year or more (Recommendations on Statistics of International Migration, United Nations, 1998).
3. Population statistics form a part of the “Barnett formula” and are also used in allocating Northern Ireland public expenditure across the province. Equivalent population figures for England and Wales will be released next month. Latest population figures for Scotland and the Republic of Ireland show 2006-0 increases of 0.5% and 2.5% respectively.
4. More detailed information on population and migration statistics can be accessed on the NISRA website
5. All media enquiries should be directed to DFP Communications Office.
   Telephone: 028 9052 7374.
6. Further statistical information can be obtained from NISRA Customer Services
   Telephone: 028 9034 8160
   Email: census.nisra@dfpni.gov.uk