ESRI August 2024 Newsletter

Dear Reader,

I hope you had a pleasant summer. This newsletter takes a break every summer, meaning that today you are reading an edition covering both July and August.

It was a busy summer for the Institute, marked by the launch of several reports.

On the climate front, we launched the report Health impacts of climate change and mitigation policies in Ireland. This report highlights the impact of climate change on hospital services in Ireland. Even in a moderate climate like ours, higher temperatures significantly increase hospitalisation rates.

Also on climate, we published a research bulletin titled Long-term exposure to air pollution and mental health. It found that long-term exposure to air pollution increases the risk of poor mental health in older adults. The findings reinforce the need for policy measures to encourage the transition away from solid fuels towards alternative, less harmful forms of home heating.

Our report COVID-19 Infection Rates and Social Disadvantage in Ireland: An Area-Level Analysis found COVID-19 infection rates to be a third higher in more deprived areas. There are important lessons here about the role of inequality during a pandemic.

This Thursday, we will publish the fourth annual report from the Community Foundation Ireland-funded ESRI research programme on poverty, income inequality and living standards in Ireland. The report will be launched at the ESRI, and a few last-minute tickets are still available. Registration details can be found below.

Additionally, our annual and highly anticipated Post-Budget Briefing will take place at the ESRI on Friday 4 October.

Regards,

Professor Alan Barrett
Director