Vermilion Town Council encourages census participation

The federal government is going to work this summer on getting an updated count on how big the population of Canada really is.

As the federal Census rolls out in May, the Town of Vermilion is asking residents to participate in order to create an accurate population count.

“They figure that the current population has grown since our last census, and have asked the town to encourage participation. It is very important we have an accurate count because our size can determine future grants,” said CAO George Rogers.

In the coming months, he anticipates that the federal government will use a variety of ways to inform residents. Residents may see information coming out on television, radio, or social media, and the Town has been asked to post it on their website.

“Things may not be executed the same way (door to door) as in the past,” said Rogers.

“As well there will be small part-time opportunities for people that have the ability.”

An estimated 32,000 jobs will be created Canada-wide for census collection.

Councillor Pulyk noted that if they are able to re-open, the Vermilion Public Library could be a focal point for individuals who don’t have computers at home.

Mayor Caroline McAuley read the proclamation saying, “For over a century, Canadians have relied on census data to tell them about how their country is changing and what matters to them. We all depend on key socioeconomic trends and census analysis to make important decisions that have a direct impact on our families, neighbourhoods and businesses,” said Mayor Caroline McAuley in the proclamation.

“Furthermore, residents completing the census will have a direct impact on gathering the data needed to plan, develop and evaluate programs and services such as schools, daycare, family services, housing, emergency services, roads, public transportation and skills training for employment. Accurate and complete census data support programs and services that benefit our community.”

For more information you can visit https://census.gc.ca