mapping migrants（映射的移民）.docVIP

Translocations: Migration and Social Change An Inter-Disciplinary Open Access E-Journal ISSN Number: 2009-0420 _____________________________________________________________________ Mapping Migrants in Ireland: The Limits of Cartography Mary Gilmartin and Gerald Mills 1 Department of Geography, National University of Ireland Maynooth (Email: mary.gilmartin@nuim.ie) 2 School of Geography, Planning and Environmental Policy, University College Dublin (Email: Gls@ucd.ie) ______________________________________________________________________________________ Abstract This paper discusses the practices and politics of mapping migrants in contemporary Ireland. Using a case study of Polish nationals in Ireland, it illustrates the various ways in which the same data – in this instance, SAPS data from the 2006 Census – may be used to create very different maps. In doing so, it highlights the limitations of SAPS data, as well as the processes of generalisation and selection that underpin any map. The paper argues that map users need to be aware of these processes, and need to approach all maps from a critical perspective. Similarly, map-makers need to be aware of the politics of map-making, particularly in relation to sensitive topics such as migration. Key Words: cartography, migration, Ireland ________________________________________________________________________ Introduction In April 2006, the Census collected detailed information, at the level of the household, about the resident population of Ireland. Each household should have completed a census form, which asked questions about household composition, and about social, cultural and economic characteristics. The Central Statistics Office (CSO), since July 2006, has been publishing reports on the Census, ranging from preliminary overviews to detailed accounts. In June 2007, the CSO published Small Area Population Statistics (SAPS). The SAPS provide aggregate information at the level of Electoral Division