STATISTIC'S CANADA'S 2016 CENSUS PROGRAM

The Canadian Federal government has invited Akwesasne to participate in the upcoming 2016 Census of Population Program. Every five (5) years, Statistic’s Canada’s #Census Program collects information that is used by all levels of government, businesses, social service organizations and ethno-cultural organizations. Census data helps to inform decision-making about pensions, schools, daycare centres, healthcare and employment programs, to name just a few.

In 2011, Statistics Canada created an Aboriginal Liaison Program. Melinda Commando, Director, visited and gave a presentation to Council and the community on March 3, 2016. This program ensures that the census takers are members from our own community. Currently, 90% of reserves in Canada currently participate in the census and the Aboriginal Liaison Program is working to increase participation.

Reports from the census are to assist in developing school and Aboriginal Language Programs; establish and expand community health and social programs; assist in making informed decisions on employment and community development plans, training and economic opportunities; evaluate existing programs and assessing new service needs.

Additional information sessions are being planned, including a presentation at the upcoming General Meeting held on Wednesday, March 30, 2016 at the Kanonhkwa’tsheri:io Atrium with a start time of 6:00 p.m.

Please inform the MCA if you would be interested in participating in this program by simply answering “Yes” or “No” to the question below: Would you want Akwesasne to participate in the 2016 Census provided by Statistics Canada?” All entries will be entered to win a $100 gift card.

Link to Survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/2KVX3LJ

If approved by the community, canvassers will begin visiting homes in April and the survey would be expected to be completed by the end of May 2016. For more information, please contact the Mohawk Government Offices at 613-575-2348.