Almost 1.5 million census forms have been distributed to households, hotels and institutions in the State ahead of tomorrow night's census, the Central Statistics Office (CSO) said yesterday. CSO officials expect the overall population may reach 4.2 million, the highest level in 135 years. The 1871 census recorded a population of 4.1 million.
The census will ask people about their ethnic or cultural background for the first time, and will include new questions on participation in voluntary activities, family relationships and fertility.
The census is the first since 2002, which recorded a population of 3.9 million, of which about 6 per cent were foreign nationals. The latest census is expected to show that 10 per cent, or 400,000 people, are foreign nationals.
Government chief whip Tom Kitt has urged the public to play their part in contributing to the success of the census.
Mr Kitt said yesterday that population statistics were essential for planning the provision of essential services such as healthcare and education and would also provide information on employment trends.
"In addition, the census will inform us as to other more local needs such as retail outlets and social amenities. The results will greatly help the Government with special strategic planning.
Mr Kitt reassured the public of the confidentiality of all information collected from individual households and businesses for the census and said this was guaranteed by law.
The 4,500 census enumerators will begin collecting completed forms from Monday, beginning with hotels and institutions. Everyone in the State must be included in the form, including people staying with friends or relatives, staying in institutions, hospitals, hotels or on board vessels. As well as being translated into 11 foreign languages, census forms are also available in large print, Braille and in audio versions.