andMr. Donnellan asked the Taoiseach if his attention has been drawn to a report (details supplied) to the effect that there has recently been a significant increase in emigration among the 18 to 25 age group; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Emigration Report.
1.
I have seen the report referred to, which relates to persons who were interviewed at the Irish centre in Camden Square, London, during the year 1970. I consider that it would be unwise to generalise from figures relating to one centre only of which there is no confirmation in official statistics available in the Central Statistics Office. In fact, according to estimates prepared in that office, the net outward passenger balance has shown a continuous and significant decrease in recent years, being 7,160 in the year ended February, 1971, as compared with 8,137 in the year ended February, 1970, and 24,548 in the year ended February, 1969.