Manitobans are now receiving 2016 census material in their mailboxes and are encouraged to fill out the forms and return them to Statistics Canada. This statement was made by Finance Minister Cameron Friesen.
“I strongly encourage every Manitoba household to complete the 2016 census forms, which provide critical information used to plan for vital services such as health-care, education and police,” Friesen said. “The responses to these questions help shape front-line services to ensure they meet the real needs of our population.”
The census is made up of 10 questions Manitobans are asked to complete by May 10, National Census Day. A more in-depth questionnaire is also part of the 2016 census and is sent to one in four randomly selected households.
Information compiled from the census and the long-form is used in a number of ways including:
- emergency planning,
- making infrastructure investments,
- helping businesses make good decisions,
- allocating gas tax revenue back to local communities, and
- proper democratic representation.
“Taking part in the 2016 census is easier than it has ever been before and the confidentiality of responses is protected by law,” Friesen said. “The forms are shorter and available in English and French, and may be completed online or via the paper version.”
Census information is used to determine federal funding to municipalities and provinces. For every person missed in the 2016 census, Manitoba loses about $46,000 in federal transfer payments over the next five years. These funds directly support provincial services.
If a census package has not been received by May 9, call the Census Help Line at 1-855-700-2016 (toll-free).
