Census 2022 is set to take place in the coming weeks as hundreds of thousands of forms are delivered to households across the country.
The Census will take place at the start of next month and by law, everyone in the country needs to be included on the form.
The reason for carrying out a census, is that it gives vital information about communities across the country and the amenities that they need such as schools, hospitals, homes and transport.
It also shows the number of people living in every area around the country and provides detailed population figures at every level.
Here's everything you need to know about Census 2022.
When will Census 2022 take place?
The census will take place on the night of April 3, 2022.
Do I have to do it?
Yes. Everyone in the country must be included.
Is it possible to fill out the census online?
Currently no. However the CSO is working on providing an online option for the next census.
Why do I have to give my name?
It's vital that you give your name to ensure everyone in the household is included. It also helps to "identify where forms are missing or duplicated."
Is my data protected?
The CSO takes all necessary security measures to make sure your data is kept secure. This includes:
- "Your census form will be collected and processed by Officers of Statistics employed directly by the CSO. No-one else will have access to your census form."
- "Under the Statistics Act 1993, the census returns must be treated as strictly private and may be used only for statistical purposes."
- "All Census 2022 forms will be processed in the CSO’s census headquarters in Swords, Co. Dublin, where all information is stored on a closed CSO network. This network is fully owned by the CSO. The detailed census information will not be copied or removed from this network."
When will my census form be collected?
Your census form will be collected between April 4 and May 6.
What if it hasn't been collected by May 6?
If it hasn't been collected, you will need to return it fully completed in a large envelope to:
Central Statistics Office
PO Box 2021
Freepost 4726
Swords, Co. Dublin
K67 D2X4
Are any new questions included on the Census 2022 form?
Yes. They include questions on renewable energy, internet access, working from home, volunteering and childcare.
