A local electoral area in Clare is among 15 nationwide which had more deaths than births in 2022.

A new analysis of data by the Central Statistics Office shows the Kilrush local electoral area experienced the fifth-largest natural decrease rate in the country in the year in question.

The Kilrush LEA recorded 190 births and 213 deaths in 2022, giving it a natural decrease of 23, translating to a natural decrease rate per 1,000 of population of -1.

This makes the area one of just 15 in Ireland where there were more deaths than births in 2022.

The Ennistymon LEA's natural increase was close to neutral, with 176 births and 173 deaths occurring, resulting in a natural increase rate of 0.2.

The Ennis, Shannon and Killaloe areas all recorded natural increases with Ennis having the highest at 3.5.

The findings are in contrast to those of 2021 when each of the five LEAs in Clare experienced natural increases.