Ministerial Statement by the Minister of Cabinet Office with Responsibility for Government Reform, The Hon. Lovitta F. Foggo, JP, MP
Good morning Mr. Speaker,
I rise to share with the Members of this Honourable House and the people of Bermuda additional information regarding the recently released 2016 Population and Housing Census Report.
Mr. Speaker, while the 2016 Census Report contains a vast array of information, it is not feasible to include every possible combination of questions and variations of response options to these questions in tables in a census report. Data users are encouraged to review the census questionnaire in Appendix B of the report as a guide to the information available from the 2016 Census. Customized tabulation requests can be fulfilled by the Department of Statistics to better meet users’ needs.
Mr. Speaker, the 2016 Census data can be used in a variety of ways. For example, the data can be used to substantiate claims made in research papers and reports, provide facts for general education and facilitate evidence-based decision making. More specific possible uses include: assessing current and future resources to meet the needs of an ageing population, determining an ideal location to start a business based on an area’s demographics and identifying high-paying occupations held by large numbers of non-Bermudians as a guide to possible opportunities for qualified Bermudians. By no means are these examples exhaustive but illustrate just some of the ways that the 2016 Census data can be a valuable resource.
Mr. Speaker, the information contained within the report’s Technical Note is important in order to fully understand the data sets of the most recent two censuses. Additionally, users should note that since the 1980 Census, the intercensal period has been irregular with intervals of 11 years, 9 years, 10 years and 6 years, respectively. Users should take this into account when comparing census trends historically.
Mr. Speaker, I have submitted an electronic copy of the 2016 Population and Housing Census Report for distribution to Honourable Members and invite that Members review the Report and refer questions and/or information requests to technical officers at the Department of Statistics.
Mr. Speaker, I take this opportunity to extend thanks to the entire team at the Department, led by Director, Ms. Melinda Williams for the timely delivery of Report.
Thank you, Mr. Speaker.