Bahamas 2010 Census - Get on Board, Get Ready, Get Counted

In her presentation, Dr. Sonya Jackson informed the club that the Bahamas is the second country in the region which will be conducting the census exercise. Other countries in the region that will also be conducting the census are:- Barbados, St. Lucia, Belize, Bermuda, BVI, Cayman, Guyana and Haiti. What is presently being conducted is a population census which would provide information about the population such as age, finances and demographics. Conducting the census exercise is important because it provides numerical data of the nation. Additionally, it is useful for gathering information which may be used in future decision making with respect to planning and allocation of resources. This information will assist the government in its ability to forecast the future needs/services required such as schools, housing, hospitals, etc. There are a few important components of the census i.e. Individuality â€" each individual is counted; Universality â€" everyone in the country is counted and Periodicity â€" it happens in a defined period. The cost for conducting the census in the Bahamas is approximately three million dollars and is the single largest activity the country will undertake. Presently the Secretariat is trying to harmonize the process across the region and will provide support to the countries conducting the census exercise. As individuals we have a responsibility to make the time to participate. There is need for patience and cooperation by Bahamians for the exercise to be successful. Confidentiality will be maintained and breaches by the census takers are punishable by law.