We have a chance now to make sense of the Census for the good of all

The Central Statistics Office has released new results from the 2022 Census. Even if statistics don’t get us all overly excited, it is the information the Government needs to develop, plan and run public services. As the saying, usually attributed to Benjamin Franklin, goes: “Failing to plan is planning to fail”.

Changes abound with the country’s population having surpassed five million for the first time in 171 years. A new era has dawned now where technology and world travel have changed the landscape and the dynamic of our country.

Since the last Census in 2016 Tipperary’s population has risen by 5% overall bringing the numbers in the county up to 167,895. It is noticeable with the increased traffic on our roads and delays in our healthcare that we need to cater for a bigger population in terms of planning.

What we do with this information is the key thing here. Planners must focus on the needs of the people but we do not just need more of the same. For example, there are imminent pressures to shift to more sustainable modes of travelling, such as walking, cycling and public transport.

Ask anyone who has had to go to a GP in Tipperary recently about the frustration they feel. The GP waiting times and hospital delays could be a matter of life and death. Longer living has become the norm this century which is great to see.

The over 65 age group increased by 20% to 29,356 in Tipperary so this must be factored into planning going forward. So too should teacher shortages be looked at and early childhood care also needs addressing with 12,173 (37%) in childcare in Tipperary, compared with 33% nationally.

Those working in the sector are crying out for better pay and conditions. Food for thought from the Census results, and more data will become available later in the year. Let’s hope the data we have is put to good use, for all of us and across all sectors.