Photo AI
"Ireland has gone from having the highest net immigration levels in Europe to the highest net emigration levels in just six years." (The Irish Times, November 2013) (i) Explain each of the underlined terms - Leaving Cert Economics - Question 8 - 2014
Question 8
"Ireland has gone from having the highest net immigration levels in Europe to the highest net emigration levels in just six years." (The Irish Times, November 2013... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:"Ireland has gone from having the highest net immigration levels in Europe to the highest net emigration levels in just six years." (The Irish Times, November 2013) (i) Explain each of the underlined terms - Leaving Cert Economics - Question 8 - 2014
Step 1
Explain each of the underlined terms.
Answer
- Emigration: This refers to the movement of Irish nationals who choose to leave their home country to reside in another location, often in search of better job opportunities or quality of life.
- Immigration: This term denotes the movement of foreign nationals coming into Ireland to establish residency, whether for work, study, or other reasons.
Step 2
Discuss two reasons why emigration levels have increased.
Answer
- Economic Recession in Ireland: The economic downturn has led to rising unemployment rates, meaning fewer job opportunities are available. People are therefore seeking employment prospects abroad where the job market is more favorable.
- Wage Rates in Ireland: Declining wage rates have contributed to a reduced standard of living, compelling individuals to look for work in countries where they can find higher wages and better living conditions.
Step 3
Outline one positive economic effect and one negative economic effect of increased emigration for the Irish economy.
Answer
- Positive Effect: Emigrants Remittances to Ireland: Those who emigrate often send money back home. This influx of remittances supports the local economy and families dependent on these funds, fostering financial stability.
- Negative Effect: Increased Taxpayer Burden: With more citizens emigrating, the remaining population may experience a higher dependency ratio, leading to increased strain on social services and potentially higher taxes to support these systems, as the government needs to provide for those remaining who may be unemployed.