CSO figures revealed an increase in the region between 2011 and 2016.
Irish Rural Link says we shouldn't get a false sense of security from the latest population figures in the midlands.
A new CSO report shows numbers living in rural areas in the region rose between 2011 and 2016.
But chief executive of the Moate-based group, Séamus Boland, feels the same barriers - regarding employment opportunities, access to services, and transport links - persist.
He says without commercial investment into the midlands, we can only expect further rural decline:
Ploughing 2026 Live Day Two: Livestock Competitions Heating Up In Offaly
Westmeath GAA Star Raises Concerns Over Future Of Irish Farming
Westmeath Market House Redevelopment Could Begin Construction By December
Ireland's EU Commissioner Welcomes US Tariff Lift On Irish Whiskey
Offaly’s First All-Ireland Winning Hurling Manager Andy Gallagher Dies Aged 89
Cistercian College Continues Ploughing Championships Tradition
EU Proposes Tighter Social Media Rules For Under-15s
Water Conservation Order To Be Lifted Early Across 13 Counties