Over the last several weeks, there has been an incredible amount of media coverage around the federal government’s decision to eliminate the Census long‐form questionnaire and replace it with the National Household Survey.
Many organizations from across the country have written in to the government to express their concern, including United Way Toronto and United Way of Canada –Centraide Canada, in a letter to the Honourable Tony Clement that was also signed by a diverse group of more than 20 other leading Canadian organizations and individuals.
According to datalibre.ca, as of the end of day Friday, July 23 2010, 160 organizations and individuals had come out against the government’s decision, whereas only three were in favour at that time.
In submitting our letter, United Way achieved what was intended – to focus attention on why the Census long‐form questionnaire is important. Information obtained from the long‐form Census questionnaire is vital because it provides United Ways – Centraides with an accurate portrait of their communities.
It is the only source of reliable and comprehensive data regarding individuals and families in local neighbourhoods and communities. The data it provides forms the basis upon which we decide how best to invest in the community in order to address root causes of issues. It enables us to track trends and identify significant shifts over time.
United Way of Canada – Centraide Canada continues to stay involved and track activities surrounding this issue.
Comments
Post new comment