asked the Taoiseach if any amendments are contemplated by the Central Statistics Office to the contents of the census of population form to be distributed this year.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Census of Population.
1.
I would refer the Deputy to the statement relating to the content of the 1971 census of population issued yesterday by the Government Information Bureau, copies of which have been placed in the Library.
The questions being asked in the 1971 census schedule which were not included in the 1966 inquiry are:—
1. In relation to persons—usual residence at census date and one year previously; place of birth; date of marriage and number of children born; religion; knowledge of Irish; method of transport to work or school and distance from residence to place of work or school; scientific or technological qualifications held.
2. In relation to private householders—nature of occupancy of dwelling; rent being paid for rented dwelling and date on which letting commenced; year in which house built; water supply; use of fixed bath or shower; sanitary facilities; electricity supply; number of motor cars used.
Could the Minister say if it is contemplated by the CSO or the Government that any special public educational efforts will be made to ensure that the fullest possible return is made in respect of the 28 questions being asked and if, for example, copies of the proposed form will be made available on an information basis to Members of the House?
The second part of the Deputy's question can be easily dealt with. In regard to the first part, every assistance will be given to every person asked to fill up this form. It is quite a comprehensive and easy form to fill. As the Deputy said, there are 28 questions. The enumerator who will be going around with the forms will give the householder or the person in each individual dwelling any assistance he can give. If the person filling in the form has any difficulty all possible assistance will be given.