Cork households urged to take part in 'crucial' pilot census survey
Of Jason Eileen Cso Clarke Census Administration, Murphy, Head Picture:
People in Cork have been urged to take part in a new survey from the Central Statistics Office which it says is a “crucial part” of the preparations for Ireland’s next census in 2027.
This is the first census to ever allow the public the option to complete their census form online, with this pilot survey testing out the new questions and the online option.
In all, 44 locations across six counties have been chosen to participate in the pilot survey taking in both urban and rural locations.
In Cork, this includes parts of Ballincollig, Bishopstown, Curaheen, Douglas Road, Magazine Road, and Turner’s Cross.
New questions on this year’s survey include ones around sexual orientation, how someone would self-report their mental health and whether their gender is the same or different to the sex recorded at birth. Existing questions have also been updated.
Households in the selected areas will receive letters from the CSO explaining how to complete the form online, which can be done anytime between now and 22 September. Paper forms can also be requested.
“If you receive our letter of invitation for the Census Pilot Survey, please take part,” said head of census administration Eileen Murphy.
“We need your help, and we cannot do this without you. By taking the time to complete the survey, you will give us essential feedback on your experience of the online form and whether the questions are understood.
“Traditionally, the purpose of a pilot census has been to test new and changed questions for the next census. In the case of this Census Pilot Survey, not only will the Survey help us test new questions, it also has the added importance of testing an online option for the first time in history of the Irish census.”