Canada holds a census every five years. It is done to provide a “statistical portrait” of the country and its people. The last one was done in 2016. This means Statistics Canada will hold it again in May of this year.
What is the Census?
The Census is the gathering of data from households regarding population, education, activities of daily living, socio-cultural information, mobility, labour market activities, housing, and other pertinent information. These are compiled as statistics. In May, households will receive a letter to complete the 2021 census questionnaire. The letter will contain a 16-digit access code to allow you to complete it online. You can request Statistics Canada for a paper version if you don’t want to do it over the internet.
When you complete the census questionnaire, you are helping build and strengthen communities.
2021 Census – How do I complete the questionnaire? Statistics Canada
Why do I need to participate?
Participating in the census is important, especially for newcomers. When you answer the questionnaire accurately, you provide the government with a clear picture of your situation and needs. The planning and design of services such as health care, language classes, educational programming in schools, family services, housing, and skills training for employment are based on statistics formed from the census. So when you complete the census questionnaire, you are helping build and strengthen communities.
It is also mandatory. Canadian citizens, landed immigrants, refugee claimants, and holders of work or study permits are required to answer the questionnaire. Households who do not file these forms may be subject to penalties based on the Statistics Act.
Taking part in the census is important for the province. Manitoba loses thousands of dollars in federal transfer payments for every person missed in the census over the next five years. These funds directly support the economic and social fabric of the province.
To know more ways by which your census information helps communities, watch this video:
2021 Census- Why is the census important? Statistics Canada
What if I can’t understand the questions?
If you need help completing the questionnaire or any other assistance for completing the census, call the Census Help Line (CHL) at Toll-free number: 1-855-340-2021 or TTY (a telecommunications device for deaf persons): 1-833-830-3109.
Source: Statistics Canada