Meath has fifth highest birth rate in country

Latest statistics from the CSO show that Meath has the fifth highest birth rate in Ireland with only Dublin, Cork, Galway and Kildare recording more births during 2015.

A total of 2,799 babies were born to mothers resident in Meath and the high figures have resulted in a call from a local TD for increased investment in childcare services in the county.

Pointing to the fact that only the capital and Kildare have recorded higher birth rates in Leinster Meath West TD Shane Cassells said the need for increased investment in the childcare sector in Meath was 'paramount' as well as the introduction of a tax credit system for parents in order to reduce costs.

'It is clear from the statistics available that Meath's population continues to grow at a steady pace and there is a dire need to make sure we have the support structures improved for mums and dads in our country,' remarked the Navan Fianna Fail TD.

He said the statistics also allow the country to plan for the future in terms of school building programmes and other amenities and said it is essential that the Government reacts to them now.