asked the Taoiseach whether it is intended to take a census of population this year; whether the usual particulars will be sought, and, if not, what queries are being omitted.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Census of Population.
It is intended to take a census of population which will relate to the night of 8th April, 1956. The particulars to be collected in respect of each person are the sex, date of birth and conjugal condition. At the Census of Population 1951 there were asked, in addition to these, questions relating to (a) Relationship to head of household, (b) Occupation, (c) Employer and Employer's business, (d) Area and valuation of agricultural land owned by persons normally resident in a household. In the case of the 1946 Census of Population, further questions were asked relating to (a) Orphanhood, (b) Birthplace, (c) Knowledge of Irish, (d) Religion, (c) Unemployment, (f) Education of young persons not yet at work, (g) Fertility of marriage, (h) Nature of occupancy of dwelling and rent paid, (i) Water supply, (j) Sanitary facilities.
Would it be possible at the taking of the census to compile a list as to the number of people in each family who have emigrated?
I do not think that would be possible but I shall bring the matter to the attention of those responsible.