The increase in the population between 2005 and 2006 was a result of the following factors:
a natural change of 8,300 people (22,700 births and 14,400 deaths);
estimated net migration into Northern Ireland from Great Britain of 900 people; and
estimated net international migration into Northern Ireland from outside the UK of 9,000 people.
Population growth due to migration (+9,900 people) was the highest ever observed and for the first time was larger than natural growth (+8,300 people). In the decade to 2004 the annual rate of population increase was around 7,000 persons (0.4%) each year. The 2005 and 2006 increases in population are significantly larger at 14,000 people (0.8%) and 17,000 people (1.0%) respectively.
A NISRA spokesperson said:
“Between 2005 and 2006 it is estimated Northern Ireland’s population grew by more than 17,000. Northern Ireland has seen significant migration since European Union expansion in May 2004 and last year for the first time migration contributed more to population growth than natural change.”
The full statistical release and tables can be found at: http://www.nisra.gov.uk/archive/demography/publications/pr_mye_2006.pdf
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-2005 and mid-2006.
2. Following international guidelines, migration statistics relate only to long-term migrants, i.e. someone who changes their place of residence for a year or more (Recommendations on Statistics of International Migration, United Nations, 1998).
3. This information can also be accessed on the Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency's website at: http://www.nisra.gov.uk/archive/demography/publications/pr_mye_2006.pdf
4. A paper is also being published today entitled “International Migration Estimates for Northern Ireland (2005-6) – Sources and Methodology”. This updates analysis undertaken by NISRA last year and provides more detailed statistics on measures of long-term international migration. This paper can be found at: http://www.nisra.gov.uk/demography/default.asp?cmsid=20_21_191&cms=demography_Population%20statistics_Migration+Statistics&release
5. All media inquiries should directed to DFP Press Office
Telephone: 028 9052 7374
Fax: 028 9052 7149
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:
Telephone: 028 9034 8160
Fax: 028 9034 8161
E-mail: census.nisra@dfpni.gov.uk
