Considered a tedious chore by many, the subject of filling out a Census of Canada survey came up at the most recent City Council meeting, and how doing so can help Weyburn.
Apparently, a lot of things depend on the information gathered through these surveys, such as the city's qualification for certain grants and, of particular importance, our eligibility for certain franchises, like the long-awaited Boston Pizza coming to town this March.
Personally, I enjoy filling out surveys. I like to think that the information I have provided has been useful in making decisions for the community, province and country as a whole.
I recently received a consumer product survey in the mail and instantly began filling it out. When I was asked why I would waste my time on such things, my response was simple, "I am interested in the survey because the survey is interested in me."
Indeed, it was interested in me. It asked me several questions about what I like to buy and how often I purchased certain things and what my favourite brands are.
How could I resist something that wanted to hear about nothing but shopping and me? After all, most people love to talk about their favourite topic - THEMSELVES! - and I am no different.
The last national census, taken in 2006, put Weyburn at a 9,500 population, but as of May 2010, Saskatchewan Health indicated that our city has a population of 11,800. Hopefully, the new census will reflect these latest numbers.
Communities depend on census information to plan for new schools, roads, waterworks, public transit, and police and fire services. Town planners use census information to plan for current and future housing needs, health care, and day-care centres.
The 2011 Census questions will cover basic demographic characteristics such as age, sex, marital and common-law status, household relationships and language. Population numbers obtained from the census are used to allocate funds from the federal government to the provinces and territories and from the provinces to municipalities. Also, data from the 2011 Census will be used to determine the number of Members of Parliament.
So, if you are craving a little attention, fill out a survey and make your voice count. The Census will be coming to your home in May.
