Migration Has Been the Key Driver of Labour Force Growth in Ireland Since 2020

Migration Has Been the Key Driver of Labour Force Growth in Ireland Since 2020

Key Takeaways

  1. Migration has been the key driver of Ireland's labour force growth over the past four years.

  2. Nearly 150,000 people migrated to Ireland in 2024 alone.

  3. India, Brazil, and the Philippines are the top countries of origin for migrants.

In 2024, net migration to Ireland reached 79,300, making migration the primary factor behind the country's labour force growth.

According to a press release from the Irish Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment, migration has significantly boosted the labour force in the past five years, with 149,200 people migrating to Ireland in 2024.

In total, Ireland experienced inward migration of 149,200 people and outward migration of 69,900, resulting in net inward migration of 79,300. This surge in immigration has become the driving force behind the growth of the labour force.

Irish Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment

Previously, Irish Finance Minister Paschal Donohoe highlighted that 2024 was a "strong year" for Ireland's labour market, with 2.78 million people employed by the year's end, marking an increase of approximately 70,000 workers compared to the previous year.

Emerging Trends: More Women and Young People Leaving Ireland While immigration surged in 2024, a growing trend of outward migration has also emerged, with more women and younger people leaving the country. This has occurred amid a period of strong economic growth, which is unusual and merits further investigation.

Irish Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment

The report Recent Trends in Migration Flows Impacting the Irish Labour Market indicates that emigration among females has risen by 56% from 2020 to 2024, compared to a 12% increase in male emigration. The rising cost of accommodation in Ireland and a desire for travel or time abroad are believed to be key factors behind this shift.

India, Brazil, and the Philippines Lead Migrant Origins The number of employment permits granted in Ireland has doubled since 2022 compared to pre-pandemic levels, with India, the Philippines, and Brazil being the top countries of origin for applicants. India alone accounts for more than a third of all permits issued, followed by Brazil and the Philippines.

Dublin remains the most popular destination for workers, receiving 53% of all permits, with Cork (8%), Kildare (5%), and Limerick (4%) also emerging as key locations for migrant workers.

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