Planners, policymakers and local authorities will now be able to get a detailed view of economic and social trends emerging across the country thanks to the National Census Atlas – a new visual mapping tool developed by the All-Island Research Observatory (AIRO) at Maynooth University in collaboration with Ireland’s three Regional Assemblies.
Ireland is the first country to develop a comprehensive national mapping resource of this type. Unique in its scope and detail, the National Census Atlas now positions Ireland as an example of international best practice. This innovative approach will serve to highlight this country’s commitment to leveraging data for sustainable development and inclusive planning.
A key advancement is the ability to allow local authorities to develop their own maps tailored to their own counties, cities and towns, local electoral areas and municipal districts. This feature will empower local authorities and elected members to better understand and respond to the unique needs of their communities and help advance regional development.
The census map, which is expected to result in better planning and policy formulation, will provide a view of over 200 social, economic and environmental indicators at neighbourhood level across the country.
It will enable users to explore a wealth of data in an accessible and interactive format, ranging from housing trends and employment statistics to environmental factors and population changes. The atlas is based on data from the CSO 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. While primarily aimed at the planning sector, the atlas will be used as a support tool for government departments and state bodies, local authorities and community groups.
It is also hoped that, in time, 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.
David Kelly, SRA Director; Clare Bannon, EMRA Director; Minister Peter Burke TD; Denis Kelly, NWRA Director, and AIRO Director Justin Gleeson at the launch of the National Census Atlas in Athlone on 6 February.
On formally launching the National Census Atlas in Athlone in February, Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment Peter Burke TD described it as “a ground-breaking tool” in providing access to key data. “It will be instrumental in supporting evidence-based policymaking. We’re the first country to develop such a resource, positioning Ireland at the forefront of international best practice,” he added.
