Vol. 518 No. 5
37 Mr. Penrose asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the research carried out by her Department to determine if escalating house prices are proving a barrier to the return to the workforce of Irish emigrants and if she will make a statement on the matter. [11973/00]
Research of this type has not been carried out by my Department. In the context of the recent decision of Government on a more proactive immigration policy, resources are being made available to carry out research on the many aspects of migration including its economic impact. I expect that this research will encompass the housing issue.
Recently published immigration data by the Central Statistics Office does not suggest that increased house prices are having an undue negative impact on returning flows of Irish migrants. In fact, the most recent population and migration estimates show that immigration into Ireland, which was estimated at 47,500 for the 12 months to April 1999, is the highest figure on record since the present series began over 13 years ago and more than 50% higher than five years previously. More than half of all immigrants in 1999 were Irish nationals.
Developments in the housing market are closely monitored by my colleague the Minister for the Environment and Local Government. The Minister recently commissioned Peter Bacon and Associates to undertake a general review of housing market developments since the introduction by Government of housing measures in April 1998 and March 1999, and to carry out an evaluation of recent developments in housing demand and supply and house prices. The review has commenced and it is expected that it will be concluded by the end of May.
