A new visual mapping tool, the National Census Atlas, has been developed to give planners, policymakers and local authorities a detailed view of economic and social trends emerging across the country.
Ireland is the first country in the world to develop a tool of this kind, which is expected to result in better planning and policy formulation.
Developed by team at the All-Island Research Observatory (AIRO) at Maynooth University and supported by Ireland's three Regional Assemblies, the tool gives a view of over 200 social, economic and environmental indicators.
From housing trends and employment statistics to environmental factors and population changes, the atlas is based on data from the CSO's Census 2022 results.
For example, the tool shows levels of population change over the last 20 years, highlighting areas of major population growth alongside regions experiencing continual population decline.
It also gives insights into the clustering of employment in sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing industries, and professional services.
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Tool is a 'major step forward' - AIRO
The tool also reveals differing trends in religious affiliation between urban and rural areas, offering a better understanding of cultural shifts.
Detailed data on commuting patterns to cities and large towns is also evident, which will help inform transport and infrastructure planning.
"The National Census Atlas represents a major step forward in democratising access to data," said Justin Gleeson, Director of AIRO at Maynooth University.
"By providing granular insights at the neighbourhood level, this tool empowers stakeholders across Ireland to identify needs, allocate resources effectively, and plan for a sustainable future," he said.
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"It is a fantastic example of public sector collaboration in Ireland and the use of publicly funded data collection initiatives," he added.
The atlas is primarily aimed at supporting the planning sector; however it will also be a useful support tool for Government department and State bodies, local authorities and community groups.
Project highlights 'power of collaboration'
It is also hoped that the tool will be used by secondary and third-level students to provide insights and a better understanding of the social and economic characteristics of the country.
The tool also has the ability to allow local authorities to develop their own maps tailored to their specific areas - counties, cities and towns, local electoral areas and municipal districts.
It will allow local authorities and elected members to better understand and respond to the unique needs of their communities and help advance regional development.
"This project highlights the power of collaboration in advancing regional development goals," said Clare Bannon, Director of the Eastern and Midland Regional Assembly.
"We're proud to support this initiative, which offers a new perspective on Ireland’s evolving social, economic, and environmental landscape," she added.
