About the Census

The conduct of decennial population and housing censuses is an international best practice and a major statistical activity. This country has adhered to the practice of conducting decennial censuses since 1851 and has an unbroken series dating from 1851 to 2000. The next census is scheduled for January 2011.

The primary objective of this census is to collect information, through personal interviews, on every person in Trinidad and Tobago. The data collected would include population composition, characteristics and spatial distribution for evidence-based decision–making. Data on the quantity and quality of the housing stock would also be collected. 

Strengths of the Census

It gives a count and profile of the population. It can give this data at a macro and micro level. It is the only source of socio economic data on the entire population. It can meet a variety of information needs relevant to:

• National planning and policy formulation
• Research
• Monitoring of global and national development goals
• Assessment of demographic trends and social situations
• Construction of sampling frames
• Development of strategic business plans
• International
• regional comparisons
• Updating of Geographic Information Systems

How Would You Benefit

The Census can reveal needs for:

• Health care facilities
• Senior citizens homes
• Schools, early childhood centres
• Recreational facilities, community centres
• Expanded public transportation
• Roads and social amenities
• Housing developments

Your Role

• The Census is a national exercise.
• Cooperate with the Census taker.
• Examine the interviewer’s identification and facilitate the conduct of the interview by providing a convenient area to do so.
• Answer all the questions truthfully.

About the Central Statistical Office (CSO)

The Central Statistical Office is a Division of the Ministry of Planning, Economic & Social Restructuring and Gender Affairs.  It was legally established on May 22 1952 under the Statistics Ordinance, Chapter 42 No.11 and was given the sole responsibility for collecting, compiling, analysing and publishing statistical information related to the economic and social activities and conditions of the people of the country. Under the revised Laws of Trinidad and Tobago which includes the Statistics Act Chapter 19:02, the provisions of the Old Ordinance were maintained.

To learn more about the CSO you can visit:http://www.cso.gov.tt/aboutcso/Pages/default.aspx

To learn more about Population and Housing Censuses you can visit: http://unstats.un.org/unsd/census2010.htm