Building a Virtuous Demographic Cycle

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Ireland’s demographic profile is undergoing rapid and profound change. Birth rates are falling, the number of children is declining, and each year the population ages. Within a decade, the ratio of workers to non-workers will narrow, and the population is projected to contract by the 2050s. Without timely, coordinated action, these trends will place increasing pressure on public finances, social protection and essential services, reshaping Ireland’s economy, society and environment.

Recent demographic shifts illustrate both challenges and opportunities. Net inward migration rebounded strongly after the 2000s and life expectancy gains have exceeded projections, but fertility rates have fallen faster than expected and now approach the European average. These dynamics highlight that demographic change is not easily predictable. Building capacity for foresight and flexible policy design will be critical.

The challenge is to build capacity and foresight to anticipate and guide demographic shifts, not merely react to their effects. This Council Report presents a clear, shared and positive vision for demographic change, helping Ireland to be better prepared.