What is the primary mandate of Statistics Canada?

Statistics Canada, also known as StatCan, is the government agency commissioned to produce statistics that help in understanding Canada, its population, resources, economy, society, and culture. It serves as the national statistical agency for Canada.

When was Statistics Canada established, and what agency did it replace?

Statistics Canada was formed on May 1, 1971, through the Statistics Act. It replaced the Dominion Bureau of Statistics, which had been established in 1918.

Where is Statistics Canada headquartered?

The agency's headquarters are located in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.

Who is the current head of Statistics Canada, and what is their title?

The current head of Statistics Canada is André Loranger, who holds the title of Chief Statistician of Canada. He assumed the role on an interim basis on April 1, 2024, and permanently on December 20, 2024.

What is the approximate number of employees at Statistics Canada?

As of March 2024, Statistics Canada had approximately 7,220 employees.

What was the annual budget for Statistics Canada in the 2023-24 fiscal year?

The annual budget for Statistics Canada for the 2023-24 fiscal year was CA$740.7 million.

What are the mandatory census frequencies mandated by the Statistics Act?

The Statistics Act mandates that Statistics Canada conduct a country-wide census of the population every five years and a census of agriculture every ten years.

How has Statistics Canada been recognized internationally?

Statistics Canada has regularly been considered the best statistical organization in the world by The Economist, notably in surveys conducted in 1991 and 1993.

What types of statistical information does Statistics Canada publish?

Statistics Canada publishes a wide range of information, including census data, economic and health indicators, immigration economics, income distribution, and social and justice conditions.

Does Statistics Canada publish a statistics journal?

Yes, Statistics Canada publishes a peer-reviewed statistics journal titled 'Survey Methodology'.

What was CANSIM, and what is its current status?

CANSIM (Canadian Socio-economic Information Management System) was a system used by Statistics Canada to publish numerous aggregate data tables on various subjects. It has since been replaced by new, more easily manipulated data tables.

What is 'The Daily' published by Statistics Canada?

'The Daily' is Statistics Canada's free online bulletin that provides daily updates on current social and economic conditions in Canada.

What is the Canadian Income Survey (CIS)?

The Canadian Income Survey (CIS) is a cross-sectional survey conducted by Statistics Canada to assess the income, income sources, and economic status of individuals and families in Canada. Data from the CIS is combined with data from the Labour Force Survey (LFS).

What is the policy regarding the licensing and accessibility of Statistics Canada's published information?

As of February 1, 2012, information published by Statistics Canada is automatically covered by an Open License, with exceptions for postal products and Public Use Microdata Files (PUMFs). Researchers must give credit to Statistics Canada for any data used.

How are Public Use Microdata Files (PUMFs) licensed?

The use of Public Use Microdata Files (PUMFs) is governed by the Data Liberation Initiative (DLI) License, which is signed by universities and Statistics Canada.

What is the Canadian Research Data Centre Network (CRDCN)?

The Canadian Research Data Centre Network (CRDCN) is a network of 27 facilities across Canada that provides access to social, economic, and health data primarily gathered by Statistics Canada, and disseminates research findings.

When did the Statistics Act come into force, establishing Statistics Canada?

The Statistics Act came into force on May 1, 1971, marking the establishment of Statistics Canada.

What was the 'Canada Year Book', and when did its publication cease?

The 'Canada Year Book' was a yearly compendium of statistical information on Canada's social and economic past, people, events, and facts. Statistics Canada published its print copy from 1967 to 2012, ceasing publication due to decreased demand and budget cuts.

What changes did Bill S-18, passed in 2005, introduce regarding census records?

Bill S-18 amended the Statistics Act to release personal census records for censuses taken between 1911 and 2001. It also introduced a provision for Canadians to consent to the public release of their personal census information after 92 years, starting with the 2006 census.

What happened to the mandatory long census form in 2010?

In 2010, the federal government cancelled the mandatory long census form in favor of a voluntary National Household Survey (NHS). This decision was later reversed.

When was the mandatory long census form reinstated?

The mandatory long census form was reinstated by the Liberal government shortly after their election in November 2015, and it was used for the 2016 census.

What issue arose concerning Statistics Canada's automated computer processes in 2011?

In 2011, Statistics Canada acknowledged that from 2004 to 2011, their automated computer processes had inadvertently made economic data available to data distributors before the official publication time. The agency stopped this process in November 2011.

What impact did the 2012 Canadian federal budget have on Statistics Canada's workforce?

The 2012 Canadian federal budget's austerity measures led to nearly half of Statistics Canada's employees (approximately 2,300 out of 5,000) being notified of potential job eliminations. These cuts also reduced the amount of information the agency could produce.

What is the legal requirement for households regarding the Canada census form?

By law, every household in Canada is required to complete the Canada census form.

When was an internet version of the census first made widely available?

An internet version of the census was made widely available for the first time in May 2006.

What was the controversy surrounding the 2011 National Household Survey (NHS)?

The controversy involved the government's decision, against the recommendations of the head of Statistics Canada, Munir Sheikh (who resigned in protest), to replace the mandatory long-form census with a voluntary National Household Survey, citing privacy concerns that were later questioned.

What were some of the arguments made by economists and business groups regarding the 2010 census changes?

Many economists and business organizations argued that a voluntary system would not provide the quality of data Statistics Canada was known for. They specifically noted the loss of detailed neighborhood-level demographic information needed for planning and decision-making, and the risk of under-representation of vulnerable groups.

What are the standard geographic units Statistics Canada uses for statistical purposes?

Statistics Canada divides Canada into standard geographic units such as Provinces or Territories, Census Divisions, Census Consolidated Subdivisions, Census Subdivisions (municipalities and equivalents), Aggregated Dissemination Areas, Economic Regions, Designated Places, Federal Electoral Districts, Forward Sortation Areas, and Statistical Area Classifications (like Census Metropolitan Areas and Census Agglomerations).

What defines a Census Metropolitan Area (CMA) or Census Agglomeration (CA)?

A Census Metropolitan Area (CMA) is a cluster of adjacent census subdivisions with a population of 100,000 or more, where at least 50,000 live in the core. A Census Agglomeration (CA) is a similar cluster with a population of at least 10,000 in the core.

What is the role of the Dominion Bureau of Statistics (DBS)?

The Dominion Bureau of Statistics was the predecessor to Statistics Canada, established in 1918. It was responsible for collecting and publishing statistical information for Canada before Statistics Canada was formed in 1971.

What is the significance of the 'Statistics Act' in relation to census data privacy?

The Statistics Act, particularly through amendments like Bill S-18 in 2005, addresses the privacy and accessibility of census records. It established that census information becomes public after 92 years, with records then transferred to Library and Archives Canada.

What was the impact of the 2012 budget cuts on Statistics Canada's output?

The budget cuts implemented in 2012 led to a reduction in the amount of information Statistics Canada was able to produce during that period.

What is the purpose of the National Household Survey (NHS) introduced in 2011?

The National Household Survey (NHS) was introduced as a voluntary survey to collect additional information for the 2011 census, intended to address privacy concerns and provide data previously collected by the long-form census.

What specific types of data were noted as being difficult to obtain due to the voluntary nature of the NHS?

Economists noted that the voluntary nature of the NHS made it difficult to obtain detailed demographic information at the neighborhood level, which is crucial for local planning decisions like building libraries or fire halls, and for pinpointing trends in income inequality or immigrant outcomes.

Which minister was responsible for the changes to the census in 2010, and what was his stated reason?

Minister of Industry Tony Clement was responsible for the changes. He stated that the shift from a mandatory to a voluntary long-form census was based on consultations and driven by privacy concerns and the threat of jail time for non-compliance.

What was the outcome of the debate regarding the quality of data collected under the voluntary National Household Survey?

Many groups claimed that a voluntary system would not yield data of the quality Statistics Canada was known for, and that politically motivated changes could taint the organization's international reputation.

What did former minister Tony Clement say about the decision to change the census form?

Tony Clement later recanted his support for the elimination of the long form, stating he would have handled it differently and blaming his party for a 'collective' decision, while also incorrectly implying the former head of StatsCan agreed with the cancellation.

What is the function of the Statistics Canada website?

The Statistics Canada website, statcan.gc.ca, serves as the primary platform for accessing the agency's data, publications, and information about its services and mandate.

What is the role of the Chief Statistician of Canada?

The Chief Statistician of Canada is the head of Statistics Canada and is responsible for the agency's operations and the production of official statistics.

What does the 'GC InfoBase' provide?

The 'GC InfoBase' is a resource from the Government of Canada that provides information on government organizations, including data on people and finances related to Statistics Canada.

What are some examples of 'Census Subdivisions' as defined by Statistics Canada?

Census Subdivisions include various types of municipalities and their equivalents, such as cities, towns, villages, hamlets, rural municipalities, and specific types like cantons in Quebec, chartered communities in the Northwest Territories, and Indian reserves.

What is the purpose of the 'Statistics Act'?

The Statistics Act is the legislation that governs Statistics Canada, outlining its mandate, responsibilities, and the requirements for conducting censuses and producing statistical information.

How does Statistics Canada ensure data accessibility for researchers?

Statistics Canada provides free access to many aggregate data tables and makes its published information available under an Open License, with specific licensing agreements for microdata files.

What is the significance of the 92-year rule for census records?

The 92-year rule, established by amendments to the Statistics Act, dictates that personal census information becomes publicly accessible and is transferred to Library and Archives Canada 92 years after the census was taken.

What was the outcome of the 2011 audit regarding Statistics Canada's computer processes?

The audit revealed that Statistics Canada's automated computer processes had inadvertently made economic data available to distributors before the official publication time between 2004 and 2011. The agency ceased this practice in response.

What is the 'National Statistics and Information Authority' (NSIA)?

The National Statistics and Information Authority (NSIA) is the national statistics agency of Afghanistan, as indicated in the 'National statistics agencies' navbox.

What is the role of the 'Institut national de la statistique et des études économiques' (INSEE)?

The Institut national de la statistique et des études économiques (INSEE) is the national statistics agency of France, responsible for producing and analyzing official statistics.

What does the 'Office for National Statistics' (ONS) do?

The Office for National Statistics (ONS) is the executive office of the UK Statistics Authority, responsible for producing and disseminating official statistics in the United Kingdom.

What is the purpose of the 'Authority control' section at the end of the article?

The Authority control section provides links to databases that catalog and manage information about Statistics Canada, helping to ensure consistency and identify the entity across different systems.

What is the relationship between Statistics Canada and the Dominion Bureau of Statistics?

Statistics Canada was established in 1971, replacing the Dominion Bureau of Statistics, which had been in operation since 1918. Statistics Canada continues the work of collecting and disseminating statistical information for Canada.

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Agency Overview

Mandate and Mission

Statistics Canada (StatCan), established in 1971, is the principal agency of the Government of Canada responsible for collecting, compiling, analyzing, and disseminating statistical information. Its mission is to help Canadians better understand Canada, its population, resources, economy, society, and culture through the provision of high-quality, relevant, and timely statistical information.

Headquarters and Structure

The agency is headquartered in Ottawa, Ontario. It is led by the Chief Statistician of Canada, who is accountable to Parliament through the Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry. StatCan operates as the national statistical agency, serving both federal and provincial government needs.

Global Recognition

Statistics Canada has frequently been recognized internationally for its excellence and quality in statistical production and methodology. Publications like The Economist have often cited it as one of the world's best statistical organizations, highlighting its contributions to reliable data and analysis.

Leadership

Chief Statistician

The agency is headed by the Chief Statistician of Canada. As of recent records, André Loranger holds this position, having assumed the role on an interim basis in April 2024 and permanently in December 2024. The Chief Statistician is responsible for the overall direction and management of the agency's statistical activities.

Ministerial Accountability

Statistics Canada is accountable to the Canadian Parliament through the Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry. The current minister responsible for the agency is Mélanie Joly. This oversight ensures alignment with government policy and parliamentary scrutiny.

Publications & Data

Statistical Output

Statistics Canada produces a vast array of publications covering diverse aspects of Canadian life. These include detailed census data, economic indicators, health statistics, immigration trends, income distribution analyses, and social and justice conditions. The agency also publishes the peer-reviewed journal Survey Methodology.

Digital Access

Historically, data was managed through systems like CANSIM. Today, StatCan provides free, easily accessible aggregate data tables via its website. "The Daily" serves as its official daily release bulletin, providing timely updates on social and economic conditions across the country.

Key Surveys

The agency conducts approximately 350 active surveys annually. Prominent among these are the Canadian Income Survey (CIS), which assesses individual and family economic status, and the Labour Force Survey (LFS), which provides crucial employment and labor market data.

The Census

Legal Mandate

The Statistics Act mandates Statistics Canada to conduct a national census of population every five years and a census of agriculture every ten years. Completing the census form is legally required for all households, ensuring comprehensive data collection for national planning and understanding.

Evolution of Data Collection

The census has evolved significantly, with internet-based collection becoming primary starting in 2006. The 2011 census saw the controversial replacement of the mandatory long-form census with a voluntary National Household Survey (NHS), sparking debate over data quality and privacy. The mandatory long form was reinstated for the 2016 census.

The decision to replace the mandatory long-form census with the voluntary National Household Survey in 2011 was highly contentious. Critics argued that the voluntary nature would lead to lower response rates and under-representation of vulnerable populations, compromising data quality essential for policy-making. This led to public debate, the resignation of the Chief Statistician at the time, Munir Sheikh, and significant political discussion regarding government influence on statistical independence and data integrity.

Recent Censuses

The most recent census was conducted in May 2021, with data released in stages throughout 2022 and beyond. Future censuses, such as the 2026 census, continue the agency's commitment to providing up-to-date demographic and socio-economic information.

Data Accessibility & Licensing

Open Data Policy

Since February 2012, information published by Statistics Canada is generally covered by an Open License, making it freely available for use and redistribution, with exceptions for specific products like postal data and Public Use Microdata Files (PUMFs). Users are required to provide attribution.

Third-Party Access

Historical time-series data, formerly available through CANSIM, is also accessible via numerous third-party data vendors. This includes platforms like Haver Analytics, Macrobond Financial, and Thomson Reuters Datastream, facilitating broader access for researchers and businesses.

Historical Context

Formation and Evolution

Statistics Canada was officially formed on May 1, 1971, through the Statistics Act, replacing the Dominion Bureau of Statistics, which had been established in 1918. The agency has undergone significant changes, including the cessation of the print Canada Year Book in 2012 due to budget cuts and evolving demand.

Census Privacy and Access

Legislation passed in 2005 amended the Statistics Act to release personal census records from 1911 to 2001 after a 92-year privacy restriction. This change also allowed individuals to consent to the public release of their census information after 92 years, balancing privacy with historical research needs.

Budgetary Impacts

In 2012, austerity measures led to significant job reductions and reduced information production capacity within Statistics Canada. These budget cuts impacted the agency's ability to deliver its full range of statistical products during that period.

Geographic Units

Standard Classifications

For statistical purposes, Statistics Canada defines a hierarchy of standard geographic units. These range from broad categories like provinces and territories down to specific subdivisions such as Census Metropolitan Areas (CMAs), Census Agglomerations (CAs), Census Tracts, and Population Centres.

The standard geographic units for census purposes include:

Province or Territory
Census Division
Census Consolidated Subdivision
Census Subdivision (municipalities and equivalents)
Aggregated Dissemination Area (ADA)
Economic Region
Designated Place
Federal Electoral District
Forward Sortation Area
Statistical Area Classifications (e.g., CMA, CA, Census Tract, Population Centre)

These units are crucial for the spatial analysis and dissemination of statistical data.

Research & Networks

CRDCN

The Canadian Research Data Centre Network (CRDCN) is a vital network of facilities across Canada. It provides researchers with secure access to a wide array of social, economic, and health data, primarily collected by Statistics Canada. CRDCN facilitates the dissemination of research findings to policymakers and the public.

Authority Control

Identifiers

Statistics Canada is cataloged across various international and national authority control databases. These identifiers help in uniquely identifying and linking information related to the agency across different systems and archives.

International Identifiers:

ISNI: 0000000120975698
VIAF: 132440675
GND: 25515-4
FAST: 535950

National Identifiers:

US Library of Congress: n79095381
BnF: cb11862596n
BnF data: 11862596n
National Library of Australia: aut-an35187080
Czech National Library: ica=ko2003167935
National Library of Portugal: 403730
BIBSYS: 90719781
National and University Library, Zagreb: 000137651
Vatican Library: 494/61311
National Library of Israel: 987007268309605171
Trove: 856956
IdRef: 026363461
Yale LUX: a4b73bbf-eaba-4b11-a1bc-7b51600b4ead

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References

A full list of references for this article are available at the Statistics Canada Wikipedia page

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Disclaimer

Important Notice

This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on publicly available data from Wikipedia and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date. Statistics Canada's data and methodologies are subject to continuous development and change.

This is not official advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for consulting official Statistics Canada publications, documentation, or seeking professional advice for specific data needs or interpretations. Always refer to the official sources for the most current and authoritative information.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.

Canada's Data Compass

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Agency Overview 🏛️

🇨🇦 Mandate and Mission

📍 Headquarters and Structure

⭐ Global Recognition

Leadership 🧑‍💼

📊 Chief Statistician

🏛️ Ministerial Accountability

Publications & Data 📜

📚 Statistical Output

💻 Digital Access

🔍 Key Surveys

The Census 🔢

📜 Legal Mandate

🌐 Evolution of Data Collection

📅 Recent Censuses

Data Accessibility & Licensing 💾

🔓 Open Data Policy

🔗 Third-Party Access

Historical Context ⏳

📜 Formation and Evolution

⚖️ Census Privacy and Access

📉 Budgetary Impacts

Geographic Units 🗺️

📍 Standard Classifications

Research & Networks 🧑‍💻

🤝 CRDCN

Authority Control 🗄️

🔗 Identifiers

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📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Agency Overview

Mandate and Mission

Headquarters and Structure

Global Recognition

Leadership

Chief Statistician

Ministerial Accountability

Publications & Data

Statistical Output

Digital Access

Key Surveys

The Census

Legal Mandate

Evolution of Data Collection

Recent Censuses

Data Accessibility & Licensing

Open Data Policy

Third-Party Access

Historical Context

Formation and Evolution

Census Privacy and Access

Budgetary Impacts

Geographic Units

Standard Classifications

Research & Networks

CRDCN

Authority Control

Identifiers

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice