Number of people living in Northern Ireland continues to grow

Between July 2008 and June 2009 the number of people living in Northern Ireland increased by 13,900 people (0.8%) the Statistics and Research Agency said today.

Population growth was less than in each of the previous three years, primarily due to a fall in levels of migration to Northern Ireland.

The Northern Ireland population at 30 June 2009 is estimated to be 1.789 million people up from 1.775 million people in June 2008. The increase in population between July 2008 and June 2009 was due to:

• natural growth of 10,600 people (25,400 births and 14,800 deaths);
• net migration of 2,100 people (23,500 people came to live here and 21,400 people left); and
• a net gain of 1,200 due to other changes, including HM Forces stationed in Northern Ireland.

In the period 2005-7, net migration was the main population growth factor accounting for 60% of all growth. Since then natural growth has returned to being the dominant factor and was responsible for nearly 80% of population growth last year.

Responding to the findings a Statistics and Research Agency spokesperson said: “Between July 2008 and June 2009 the population grew by nearly 14,000 people to stand at 1.789 million in June 2009. Over this period natural growth, more births than deaths, was the dominant driver of growth. Whilst the population grew due to migration, the levels seen were less than those observed in each year between 2004 and 2008. The population continues to age, with over 300,000 pensioners now living in Northern Ireland; this equates to 1 person in every 6 of the population.”

Notes to editors:

1. The Northern Ireland mid year population estimate series 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-2008 and mid-2009.
2. In line with international practice, 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 for areas within Northern Ireland were also published today; further details are available on the Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency (NISRA) website.
4. 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 were also published today and can be obtained from the Office for National Statistics website. Latest population figures for Scotland and the Republic of Ireland show 2008-9 annual increases of 0.5% and 0.8% respectively.
5. All media enquiries should be directed to DFP Communications Office on 028 9052 7374. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.
6. Further statistical information can be obtained from NISRA Customer Services by telephone on 028 9034 8160 or email census.nisra@dfpni.gov.uk.