Every Nova Scotian Counts in the 2006 Census

It's time once again for Nova Scotians to take part in the 2006 national census on Tuesday, May 16.

Between Tuesday, May 2, and Saturday, May 13, national census questionnaires will be delivered to homes across Nova Scotia.

This census is conducted every five years. It provides valuable social, economic, and demographic information about all Canadians and the places they live. All levels of government, communities across Canada, and others use this information to help make decisions about essential programs and services.

Finance Minister Michael Baker said Nova Scotia will benefit from the information gathered through this census.

"In Nova Scotia, the information, along with other data, will help determine the right programs and services for children, seniors, and families in communities and cities across the province. This means we will invest where it will make a real difference to Nova Scotians."

Mr. Baker also noted the consequence of people not completing the census questionnaire. "Population information is used by the federal government in determining major transfer payments. Every person not counted in the census will result in lost dollars to the province, and therefore, in lower funding for essential programs."

Individuals have the option of either completing the questionnaire on paper, or online as of Tuesday, May 2, at www.census2006.ca .

Starting on Monday, May 1, anyone with census questions or needing help in completing the questionnaire can call the census help line toll-free at 1-877-594-2006.

Statistics Canada will be holding a news conference on Wednesday, May 3 at 10 a.m. at Pier 21, to kick-off the May 16 census.