1926 Irish Census Released

The records reveal fascinating insights into the social and economic conditions of the era, including the prevalence of now-extinct professions like lamplighters and umbrella fixers.

Taoiseach Simon Harris stated that the publication allows the public to 'step back in time' and connect with their ancestral history.

The census was the first to record the status of 'orphanhood' and provides detailed information on the religious and linguistic makeup of the young republic.

Genealogists and historians are already uncovering surprising findings, such as the high number of centenarian nuns and the limited use of the Irish language in official returns.