Ireland Facts

by countryaah · Published June 3, 2019 · Updated December 12, 2024

Ireland, a state comprising most of the island of the same name; 70 285 km², 4.8 million residents (2019).Ireland’s only land border is in the northeast towards the United Kingdom (Northern Ireland). The country is divided into 26 counties. The capital is Dublin (553,200 residents, 2016).

Country facts

Éire / Ireland
Country abbreviation: IRL
Area: 70 285 km²
Population (2019): 4.8 million residents
Capital: Dublin
Main languages: Irish, English
State: Republic
Head of State: Michael D Higgins (President)
Head of Government: Leo Varadkar
Per capita GDP (2018): US $ 78,806
GNI per capita (2018): US $ 59,770
Currency unit: euro
Currency code: EUR
Country number (telephony): 353
Internet Domain Name: ie
Time difference compared to Sweden: −1
National Day: March 17 (Saint Patrick’s Day)
Independence Day: December 6, 1921

Nature

Land use: forest (11%), agricultural land (61%), other (28%)
Highest mountain: Carrantuohill (1,041 m above sea level)
Longest river: Shannon (260 km)

Population

Population density (2019): 68 residents per km²
Natural population growth (2019): 0.6%; birth rate 13 ‰, death rate 6 ‰
Age structure (2019): 0-14 years (21%), 15-64 (65%), 65- (14%)
Average life expectancy (2019): men 78 years, women 83 years
Infant mortality (2019): 3 per 1,000 live births
Population forecast 2050: 6 million residents
HDI (2017): 0.938 (place 4 of 189)
Urbanization rate (2019): 63%
Most populous cities (2016): Dublin (553,200 residents), Cork (125,600), Galway (79,500)

Business

Industry’s contribution to GDP (2017): agriculture (1%), industry (39%), service (60%)
Exports (2017): US $ 219,700 million
Main export products: machines, computers, chemicals
Main exporting countries: USA, UK, Belgium
Imports (2017): US $ 98 130 million
Main import products: components for computers, machines, chemicals
Main importing countries: United Kingdom, USA, France
Railway network (2018): 4,300 km

Geography

Location and Borders

Ireland is an island located to the northwest of continental Europe, surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, the Celtic Sea, and the Irish Sea. The island is divided into two political entities: the Republic of Ireland, which occupies about five-sixths of the island, and Northern Ireland, which is part of the United Kingdom and lies to the northeast. Ireland’s total area is approximately 84,000 square kilometers, making it the third-largest island in Europe.

The island of Ireland is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the west, the Celtic Sea to the south, the Irish Sea to the east, and the North Channel, which separates it from Scotland. It shares a land border with Northern Ireland to the north. The country’s relatively small size and its proximity to both Europe and North America have shaped its strategic importance throughout history.

Major Landforms

Ireland is renowned for its diverse landscapes, which vary from rugged coastal cliffs to rolling hills, fertile plains, and mountainous regions. The country’s central region is dominated by low-lying plains, which are interspersed with large lakes and rivers, including the Shannon, Ireland’s longest river. The River Shannon flows from the north to the south of the country, draining much of the inland region and dividing Ireland into two parts: the more rugged and hilly west, and the flatter, more fertile east.

In the west, the terrain is marked by steep hills and the iconic Cliffs of Moher, which rise dramatically from the Atlantic Ocean. The mountainous region of the Macgillycuddy’s Reeks, located in the southwest of the country, contains Ireland’s highest peak, Carrauntoohil, which rises to 1,041 meters. The coastline along the western edge of Ireland is deeply indented, with numerous peninsulas, bays, and inlets.

The east and southeast of Ireland are characterized by flatter terrain, with large stretches of farmland and rolling hills. The Midlands, which occupy the center of the island, contain bogs and peatlands, some of which have been drained for agricultural use. These areas are essential for agriculture, especially for growing crops like wheat, barley, and potatoes.

Rivers and Lakes

Ireland’s rivers play a vital role in its geography, providing not only water resources but also serving as key transport routes throughout history. The River Shannon is the most significant river in the country, running from the northwest to the southeast and flowing through a number of towns and cities, including Limerick and Athlone. The Shannon is a crucial waterway for both transportation and drainage, draining much of the central lowlands.

In addition to the Shannon, Ireland is home to several other major rivers, including the Liffey, which flows through Dublin, and the Boyne, which has historical significance due to the Battle of the Boyne in 1690. The River Lee flows through Cork, and the River Foyle forms part of the border between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.

Ireland’s lakes are also important geographical features. Lough Neagh, located in the north of the island, is the largest lake in Ireland and the British Isles. Other significant lakes include Lough Corrib in the west, Lough Derg on the Shannon River, and Lough Mask. These lakes contribute to the country’s scenic beauty and have supported local economies, particularly in fishing and tourism.

Climate

Temperate Maritime Climate

Ireland’s climate is classified as temperate maritime, characterized by mild temperatures, moderate rainfall, and a lack of extreme seasonal variation. The country’s climate is greatly influenced by its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, which helps moderate temperatures and creates relatively consistent weather patterns throughout the year.

Ireland’s coastal regions experience mild winters and cool summers, with temperatures rarely dropping below freezing in the winter or rising above 20°C in the summer. In Dublin, the capital, winter temperatures generally range between 5°C and 8°C, while summer temperatures average between 15°C and 19°C. The western part of Ireland, exposed to more direct Atlantic weather, receives more precipitation than the east, with some areas receiving up to 2,000 millimeters of rain annually.

The southern and western coasts are more affected by wet and windy conditions due to the prevailing westerly winds. These regions experience higher levels of rainfall and have more cloud cover throughout the year, contributing to the lush green landscapes that Ireland is famous for. The eastern regions, including Dublin, are somewhat drier, experiencing less rainfall and more sunshine compared to the west. The interior, including the Midlands, is somewhat drier but also experiences moderate rainfall and mild temperatures.

Seasonal Variation

Ireland experiences distinct seasonal changes, with summer being relatively cool and winter remaining mild compared to other European regions. The country’s seasons are typically wetter in the autumn and winter, when storms from the Atlantic bring rain and wind. During spring and summer, temperatures are milder, and while rainfall continues, it tends to be less intense than in the fall and winter months.

Spring is a time of renewal, with Ireland’s natural beauty coming to life with blooming flowers, green fields, and mild weather. The summer months, from June to August, offer the most pleasant weather, though temperatures rarely exceed 20°C, even during heatwaves. This mild summer climate allows for the cultivation of various crops and supports Ireland’s thriving tourism industry, attracting visitors to explore the country’s natural landscapes and historic sites.

People

Demographics

Ireland has a population of approximately 5 million people, with the vast majority residing in the Republic of Ireland. The country’s population is characterized by a youthful demographic, with a median age of around 37 years. However, Ireland’s population has grown older in recent years, reflecting trends in other developed nations, such as lower birth rates and higher life expectancy. The population density is highest in and around major cities like Dublin, Cork, Galway, and Limerick, with rural areas being less densely populated.

In terms of ethnic composition, the vast majority of Ireland’s population is of Irish descent. However, the country has become increasingly diverse in recent decades due to immigration from other European Union countries, the United States, and Africa. Immigrant populations, especially in cities like Dublin, bring a variety of cultural influences to the country.

Language and Religion

The official languages of Ireland are Irish (Gaelic) and English, with English being the dominant language spoken by the vast majority of the population. Irish is taught in schools and is used in government, although it is spoken fluently by only a small proportion of the population, primarily in rural areas known as Gaeltacht regions. The Irish language holds significant cultural importance and is a symbol of national identity.

Ireland is predominantly a Christian country, with Roman Catholicism being the dominant religion. Approximately 78% of the population identifies as Catholic, a reflection of the country’s deep-rooted Catholic traditions, especially in rural areas. Protestantism, particularly Anglicanism, is practiced by around 4% of the population, mainly in Northern Ireland. The remainder of the population identifies with other Christian denominations, including Orthodox Christianity, or with no religious affiliation.

Religion plays a significant role in Ireland’s cultural and social life, although in recent years, secularism has been on the rise, particularly among younger generations. This shift reflects broader European trends, with a decrease in religious observance and a greater emphasis on individualism and human rights.

Economy

Economic Overview

Ireland has a highly developed and open economy, with a strong emphasis on high-tech industries, services, and exports. It is one of the fastest-growing economies in Europe and has benefitted from its membership in the European Union, which provides access to a large single market. The country has a low corporate tax rate, making it an attractive destination for multinational corporations, especially in the technology, pharmaceutical, and financial services sectors.

Ireland’s economy is export-driven, with a significant portion of its GDP derived from exports, particularly in industries like pharmaceuticals, chemicals, electronics, and software. The country is home to global giants such as Google, Facebook, and Apple, which have major operations in Dublin. Additionally, Ireland is a major exporter of food, particularly beef, dairy, and whiskey, with agricultural products remaining a key part of the economy.

Despite its economic growth, Ireland has faced challenges, particularly in relation to housing, inequality, and infrastructure. The country’s rapid economic growth in the 1990s and early 2000s was followed by a severe recession in the wake of the global financial crisis in 2008. However, Ireland has since rebounded and is considered one of Europe’s most attractive places for investment.

Agriculture and Industry

Agriculture has historically been the backbone of the Irish economy, and it continues to play an important role in rural areas. Ireland’s fertile soil and temperate climate are ideal for farming, and the country is a leading exporter of agricultural products, particularly beef, dairy, and potatoes. The Irish dairy industry is one of the largest in Europe, and Irish beef is known for its quality and exported worldwide.

The country has also made significant strides in industrial development, particularly in the areas of electronics, pharmaceuticals, and biotechnology. Many multinational corporations have established manufacturing facilities in Ireland, particularly in the high-tech and medical sectors. The pharmaceutical and medical device industries are major drivers of economic growth in Ireland, with large companies like Pfizer, Johnson & Johnson, and Medtronic having operations in the country.

Government

Political Structure

Ireland is a parliamentary democracy, with a president serving as the head of state and the Taoiseach (Prime Minister) serving as the head of government. The president is elected for a seven-year term and holds a largely ceremonial role, while executive power rests with the government, led by the Taoiseach. The Irish political system is based on a multi-party system, with several political parties vying for power, most notably Fine Gael, Fianna Fáil, and Sinn Féin.

The Irish parliament, known as the Oireachtas, consists of two houses: the Dáil Éireann (lower house) and the Seanad Éireann (upper house). Members of the Dáil are elected by the people through proportional representation, while members of the Seanad are appointed or elected by specific groups, such as universities and local councils. The government is formed by the Taoiseach, who is typically the leader of the majority party or coalition in the Dáil.

Ireland is a republic, and its political structure is enshrined in the Constitution of Ireland, which was adopted in 1937. The Constitution guarantees a range of civil rights and freedoms, including freedom of speech, the right to a fair trial, and the protection of private property.

Political History

Ireland’s modern political history is deeply intertwined with its struggle for independence from Britain. The island was part of the United Kingdom until 1922, when Ireland gained independence after the Irish War of Independence. The country became the Irish Free State in 1922, and in 1937, it adopted a new constitution and became a republic, formally severing its ties with the British crown.

Ireland’s history has been marked by political and religious divisions, particularly between the Catholic majority in the south and the Protestant majority in the north. The partition of Ireland in 1921 resulted in the creation of Northern Ireland, which remained part of the United Kingdom. This division has been a source of conflict, particularly during the period known as “The Troubles” (1960s-1998), which saw violent clashes between Protestant unionists and Catholic nationalists.

The Good Friday Agreement of 1998 brought an end to much of the conflict in Northern Ireland, establishing a devolved government and improving relations between the Catholic and Protestant communities. Today, Ireland is a stable democracy, with a growing economy and an increasingly global outlook.

Culture

Art and Music

Ireland has a rich cultural heritage, known for its art, literature, and music. Irish literature is among the most respected in the world, with authors such as James Joyce, W.B. Yeats, and Samuel Beckett making significant contributions to modern literary traditions. Irish writers have earned numerous literary awards, including the Nobel Prize in Literature, and their works explore themes such as identity, history, and the human condition.

Irish music is also central to the country’s culture, with traditional folk music being an essential part of the national identity. Instruments such as the tin whistle, fiddle, and uilleann pipes are staples of Irish music, and the country’s folk tunes are known for their lively rhythms and distinctive melodies. Ireland is also known for its contribution to modern music, particularly in rock and pop, with famous bands such as U2 and The Cranberries achieving international success.

Festivals and Cuisine

Ireland is home to numerous festivals throughout the year, celebrating everything from music and literature to food and traditions. St. Patrick’s Day, celebrated on March 17, is Ireland’s most famous festival, marking the country’s patron saint with parades, music, and festivities. Other popular festivals include the Galway Arts Festival, the Dublin Theatre Festival, and the Cork International Film Festival.

Irish cuisine is known for its hearty, rustic dishes, many of which have roots in the country’s agricultural history. Traditional Irish dishes include Irish stew, made with lamb or beef, potatoes, and vegetables; soda bread; and colcannon, a dish made of mashed potatoes with cabbage or scallions. The country is also known for its whiskey and Guinness beer, which have become global symbols of Irish culture.

Literature and Cinema

Ireland’s rich literary tradition has produced many world-renowned authors, including Jonathan Swift, Oscar Wilde, and Seamus Heaney. The country’s literary history is celebrated through festivals, museums, and institutions, including the Dublin Writers Museum and the International Literature Festival Dublin.

In addition to literature, Irish cinema has gained international acclaim, with directors such as Neil Jordan and John Boorman, as well as films like The Commitments and Brooklyn, bringing Irish stories to the global stage. Irish cinema often explores themes of identity, history, and the struggles of everyday people.