Richard Bruton
Ceist:4 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Taoiseach the statistical information collected to date during 1993 which relates to emigration levels; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Emigration Levels.
To determine the level of emigration accurately in any period it would be necessary to have comprehensive documentary or other administrative procedures relating to the movement of persons out of the State. Such procedures would neither be practical nor in keeping with the principle of free movement of persons within the European Communities. In the absence of administrative procedures the only reliable estimates are those for net migration, i.e. the difference between inward and outward flows, for the period between successive Censuses of Population.
In the shorter term the only information available is the series of annual net migration and population estimates in respect of mid-April. Estimates of net migration in the 12 months to mid-April are made in conjunction with population estimates taking account of appropriate data on births and deaths.
The most recently published figure relates to the 12 months to mid-April 1992 during which it is estimated that inward migration exceeded outward migration by 2,000 persons. An estimate of net migration during the 12 months to mid-April 1993 will, in accordance with normal practice, become available in the autumn.
Would the Minister of State agree that the 25 per cent jump in redundancy figures this year coupled with the relative stability in unemployment figures would indicate to most commentators that there has been a substantial rise in emigration in the first quarter of this year? Would he agree that it is very important to have some information about monthly and quarterly movements in emigration in the formulation of effective policies to deal with the issue?
The Deputy sought statitical information. Therefore matters of policy should not arise now.
I should draw your attention, a Cheann Comhairle, to the fact that I asked the Taoiseach to make a statement on the emigration figures for the first quarter of this year.
I repeat that the Deputy sought statistical information.
And a statement on the issues which arise from the material. As I said, the figures for the first quarter indicate that there has been a 25 per cent jump in redundancy figures——
It involves the area of policy and the Deputy must put down other questions.
It does not, it indicates a lack of statistical information on emigration levels for Members of this House and policy makers.
If it relates to statistics only, I will allow a reply.
The Deputy's question relates to policy——
A flag of convenience.
If the Deputy allows me to finish my reply he will get the full answer.
I am sure I will be enlightened.
The question relates to policy but the indications so far are that there has been a slight — not substantial — increase in outward migration in the first quarter of this year.
Ar aghaidh go Ceist a 5.
Deputy J. Higgins rose.
This is a statistical question, Deputy.
Would the Minister of State agree that it is most unsatisfactory that we are unable to say for definite how many people emigrated last year, last month or over a set period and that this is a vital component in economic and social planning?
That question relates to policy but we are in a position to give a broad estimate, as we have done since the foundation of the State. The only accurate figures that can be given are the figures compiled from two censuses.
The questions we are about to embark upon are priority questions to the Minister for Finance. Let us strive earnestly to dispose of these five questions within the time laid down in Standing Orders in a fair and equitable manner. Question No. 5.