Conducting the 2006 Census of Canada
On Tuesday May 16, 2006, Statistics Canada will be taking the census of approximately 32 million people in Canada.
A census is held every five years in Canada. Each household is required by the Statistics Act to provide the information requested in the census. The same act requires that Statistics Canada keep personal information collected by the census confidential.
The census counts all men, women and children living in Canada, including those with a temporary resident permit, study permit or work permit, and their dependents. Canadians living abroad on a military base, attached to a diplomatic mission, or at sea or in port aboard Canadian-registered merchant vessels are also included in the census.
Uses of Census of Canada Data
Canadian Census data is used for a wide variety of purposes. All levels of government in Canada use census information to make policy decisions on economic and social programs. It is used to redistribute seats in the House of Commons and provincial and territorial legislative assemblies, and to determine equalization payments and other federal-provincial transfer payments. Canadian governments use census data for planning community services, from health care to fire and police protection. Businesses, universities and individuals also use census information as a planning tool.
The first release of statistics from the 2006 Census of Canada will be in February 2007.
The 2006 Census of Canada Questionnaire
There are two types of census questionnaire for the 2006 Census. Four out of five households will receive a short questionnaire with just eight questions. One out of five households will be required to complete the longer version with 61 questions.
Canadian households will receive a questionnaire before May 16, 2006 which can be completed and returned by mail in the yellow envelope provided. The questionnaire can also be completed online.
Every household must complete a census questionnaire and everyone who lives in the household must be included on the questionnaire. If your household includes people who are not part of your family, additional questionnaires are available by calling the Census Help Line at 1 877 594 2006, starting May 1 between 8 am and 9 pm. If you do not want your information completed by the person filling in the household questionnaire, ask for an individual questionnaire by calling the Census Help Line.
If you live outside Canada and work for the government, your questionnaire will be delivered at your place of work. Other Canadians living abroad can complete a census questionnaire at a Canadian embassy or consulate.
Online Questionnaire for 2006 Census of Canada
In 2006, the census questionnaire will be available online as well as in the standard paper form.
New Questions in the 2006 Census of Canada
New questions in the 2006 Census of Canada questionnaire include:
- a question on where individuals received their highest level of education, to allow the analysis of flows of skilled personnel
- a question giving the option to consent to the use of income information from income tax files instead of answering the income questions
- a question on income from child benefits
- a question on income tax paid
- a question asking respondents to give permission to Library and Archives Canada to release their information after 92 years to anyone doing genealogical research.
2006 Canadian Census of Agriculture
On May 16, 2006, Census Canada will also take the 2006 Census of Agriculture. The Census of Agriculture collects a wide range of data on the agriculture sector in Canada, and gives a picture of agriculture and farm families across the country.
Census Help Line
If you need an additional questionnaire or need help answering the census questions, call the Census Help Line at 1 877 594 2006 beginning May 1, 2006 between 8 am and 9 pm.
