This is slightly less than the 1% annual increase observed in the previous two years.
The size of the resident population in Northern Ireland at 30 June 2008 is estimated to be 1.775 million people. The 0.9% increase in population between July 2007 and June 2008 is estimated to be as a result of the following factors:
- natural growth of 10,600 people (25,200 births and 14,600 deaths);
- net migration gain in Northern Ireland of 5,700 people (27,500 people came to Northern Ireland to live and 21,700 people left); and
- a net loss of 500 due to other changes, primarily Her Majesty’s Forces stationed in Northern Ireland
In the period 2005-2007, net migration was the main factor contributing to nearly 60% of population growth. However, between mid-2007 and mid-2008, natural growth was once again dominant, being responsible for two thirds of population increase. Responding to the findings a NISRA spokesperson said: “Between July 2007 and June 2008 Northern Ireland’s population grew by nearly 16,000 people. Natural growth has again become the main driver of population growth in Northern Ireland, following considerable migration to Northern Ireland since European Union expansion in 2004.”
Notes to Editors:
- 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-2007 and mid-2008.
- 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)).
- 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 2007-8 increases of 0.5% and 1.9% respectively.
- A separate paper with more detailed statistics on measures of long-term migration will be published in August 2009. This updates analysis undertaken by NISRA last year entitled “International Migration Estimates for Northern Ireland (2007-8) – Sources and Methodology”, which can be found at: http://www.nisra.gov.uk/demography/default.asp18.htm
- Further statistical information can be obtained from NISRA Customer Services, telephone: 028 9034 8160, e-mail: census.nisra@dfpni.gov.uk
- Media enquiries to DFP Communications Office on 028 9052 7375. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.
