Informed Policy for a Better Ireland

child wearing wellies and playing in a puddle
Material deprivation rises for children as inflation erodes real incomes

 Material deprivation – the share of individuals in households unable to afford two or more items from a list of ten essentials – rose from 17.7% in 2022 to 20.1% in 2023 for those aged under 18.

chimneys conveying air pollution
Long-term exposure to air pollution increases risk of poor mental health in older adults

One of the most damaging forms of air pollution is fine particulate matter (PM2.5), which in Ireland is caused by burning solid fuels for heating. Higher annual average PM2.5 levels were significantly associated with higher depression and anxiety.

Research Areas

The mission of the Economic and Social Research Institute is to advance evidence-based policymaking that supports economic sustainability and social progress in Ireland. ESRI researchers apply the highest standards of academic excellence to challenges facing policymakers, focusing on 12 areas of critical importance to 21st Century Ireland.