Family Formation in Ireland Trends, Data Needs and Implications. ESRI Policy Series No. 43. December 2001

Fahey, Tony and Russell, Helen (2001) Family Formation in Ireland Trends, Data Needs and Implications. ESRI Policy Series No. 43. December 2001. [Policy Paper]

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Abstract

This study provides an overview of the knowledge and information base for policy analysis in certain areas connected with the family in Ireland. It takes place in the context of considerable policy interest in various aspects of family behaviour combined with a poor record of research and data collection in the field. The study aims to summarise the main outlines of what can be said on the basis of present knowledge about major trends in family formation in Ireland, identify the main gaps in the data which need to be filled, and draw implications. In considering trends in family formation, it focuses on three major issues: decline in fertility, the growth and pattern of lone parenthood, and changes in household and family size, with particular reference to the persistence of large family households.

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