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Desertification: measuring population decline in rural Ireland
Journal of Rural Studies
|October 1, 1994
Summary
Rural population decline in Ireland is linked to peripheral locations and smaller populations, especially affecting young working-age groups. This study precisely identifies these demographic shifts and migration patterns.
Area of Science:
- Demography
- Rural Studies
- Population Geography
Background:
- Ireland has experienced significant rural population decline over the past two decades.
- Understanding the drivers of this decline, particularly in relation to place size and migration, is crucial for policy development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze rural population changes in the Republic of Ireland over the last 20 years.
- To investigate the relationship between population size, net migration, and age demographics in rural districts.
- To precisely identify the links between place size, population change, and the composition of that change.
Main Methods:
- Analysis conducted at the level of approximately 160 Rural Districts.
- Examination of population change data considering size of place.
- Estimation of net migration for key age groups within rural areas.
Main Results:
- Confirmed expected relationships between peripheral locations, small population size, and depletion of young working-age populations.
- Demonstrated a precise identification of the links between place size and population change.
- Highlighted the composition of population change, particularly concerning age groups and migration.
Conclusions:
- Peripheral rural areas and smaller settlements in Ireland are disproportionately affected by population decline.
- Net migration patterns, especially among young working-age individuals, are key drivers of rural demographic shifts.
- The study's methodology offers a precise tool for understanding the nuances of rural population dynamics.