National Statistics Council

A week ago, the National Statistics Council publicly renewed its offer to meet with the Industry Minister about the census. As of last night, according to NSC president Ian McKinnon, there had been “no expression of interest from the minister’s office in meeting with representatives of the Statistics Council.”

From a statement released last evening, the Industry Minister finds the one part of yesterday’s statement from the National Statistics Council that agrees with him and declares his agreement with it.

The National Statistics Council has released a statement responding to the latest steps in the census dance, in part noting the government’s “recognition that the voluntary National Household Survey will not meet the requirements for robust and accurate small-area data (e.g. data related to the use of Canada’s Official Languages) that can only be provided through a mandatory instrument.”

The Globe finds the most comprehensive tally of the outrage.

The Canadian Federation of Independent Business is disturbed. The mayor of Fredericton is stumped. Peterborough’s medical officer of health is concerned.

Tavia Grant reviews the Danish and Dutch models.

Before publicly tabling its proposal this morning, the National Statistics Council tried to speak directly with the Industry Minister.

The National Statistics Council, the government-appointed group that advises the chief statistician has stepped forward this morning with a series of proposals, which, while keeping the mandatory long form census, include a review of the questions asked along strict criteria, an amendment to the Statistics Act to remove the threat of prison time and the elimination of questions on household activities.