Ulster set for 25% rise in Oaps...we’re not kidding

NORTHERN Ireland’s population is set to age dramatically over the next decade – while the number of children will fall.

Figures by the Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency show by 2026 the number of people aged 65 and over is projected to increase by 25%, or around 74,500.

But in an indication of the “demographic time bomb” many countries are facing, the agency added: “In contrast, the number of pre-school children in Northern Ireland is projected to fall by 7.8% over the decade.”

A further statistic, which could have significant implications for spending on health, is growth “of over 40% is projected among those aged 85 and over” in five council areas.

Mid Ulster is “set to experience the highest percentage growth in this age category.”

Ian Shuttleworth, from Queen’s University, said such trends are “fairly common across the northern hemisphere”.

He added: “There is certainly an issue about caring for an ageing population, with a debate going on about nurses from the EU leaving the UK and who is going fill any jobs needed in the future.

“In the very long term the population is going to start decreasing, obviously if there’s fewer young people and they’re having fewer children.”

Mr Shuttleworth said a further issue is about the “public keeping healthy as they age”, given someone in their 60s or even 70s will be little drain on resources if they are fit and healthy.