CENSUS 2002: The number of divorced people in the State has more than trebled as non-traditional family units become increasingly common, the census shows.
However, the rate of marriage breakdown remains relatively low, at 7.5 per cent. This compares to 5.4 per cent in 1996.
Limerick city has the highest rate of marriage breakdown, at 11.7 per cent, followed by Dublin city, at 10.6 per cent. Cavan (4.9 per cent) and Galway county (5.1 per cent) have the lowest rates.
The number of divorced people grew from 9,800 in the 1996 census to 35,100 last year, according to the figures released yesterday by the CSO. This trend can largely be explained by the legalisation of divorce in the State in 1997.
The number of separated, including divorced, people increased from 87,800 in 1996 to 133,800 in 2002.
Women are more likely to be divorced or separated; they account for 58 per cent of this group.
With the proportion of single 35 to 44-year-olds on the rise, there is clear evidence that the number of people who will never marry is on the increase.
According to the census figures, the State's population has aged by a year since 1996. This gives an average age of 35.1 years in 2002 compared to 34.1 six years earlier. Dublin Fingal and Dublin South have the youngest populations, with an average age of about 32 years. Co Leitrim, with an average age of 38 years, has the oldest population.
Commenting on the census results, the National Consultative Committee on Racism and Interculturalism said they showed the extent of diversity in Ireland.
The committee called on the Government to ensure that the next census has a comprehensive question about ethnic origin as well as nationality.
"This is because there are many people from minority ethnic groups in Ireland who are Irish nationals and who would not be covered by the 'nationality' question," said acting director, Mr Kensika Monshengwo.
Mr Monshengwo pointed out that most recent immigration into Ireland is due to returning Irish emigrants and workers.
