Successful census a public responsibility – President

It is the duty and responsibility of the public to ensure the success of the first island-wide population and housing census after 30 years, President Mahinda Rajapaksa said.

The President said this when the Janadhipathi Mandiraya at Fort was listed under the census of housing which began yesterday.

The last island-wide census was conducted in 1981. The census, which was scheduled for 1991 and 2001, could not be conducted island-wide due to terrorist threats in the Northern and Eastern Provinces.

The first scientific census was conducted in 1871. Since then censuses have been conducted, once in 10 years with certain exceptions.

This year’s census will be conducted in three stages. The mapping of all Grama Niladhari Divisions in the country has been completed and the listing of housing units commenced yesterday.

The Grama Niladhari would help the Department of Census and Statistics in the mapping of houses and every house will be allocated a special number.

The Department expects to release the final results within six months of the conclusion of the third phase of the census.