Immigration is a hot topic these days, but why let the facts get in the way of emotion? From the Irish News:According to the ONS data, the north’s net population increased by 7,467 between mid-2023 and mid-2024, representing a net growth of 0.39%. Across the north’s 11 council areas, Newry, Mourne and Down saw its population fall, with the remaining areas recording estimated increases of less than 2,000 people each. The Belfast City Council area added just 1,857 new residents over the 12 months. The remaining seven council areas recorded even smaller increases, with Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon gaining 757 people, Mid Ulster adding 712, and Ards and North Down up by 502.