Nunavummiut urged to fill out the 2016 census
Federal funding to the territories is partly based on census population counts
Failing to fill out the census this year could end up costing individuals and the territory, say government officials.
Statistics Canada staff will be going door to door in Nunavut in May to carry out the 2016 national census. The data collected helps determine accurate population estimates, which are used along with other information to figure out federal transfer payments to the territories.
"The more accurate we can be about what our population is, the more accurate a base we have to calculate the territorial formula financing," said Chris D'Arcy, Nunavut's deputy finance minister.
He said the data also helps set priorities for a couple of reasons.
"The more accurate we can be, the better we can plan to deliver services to Nunavummiut and also to have grants and contributions to the hamlets, to the local housing organizations, to all who are looking for funding.
"Secondly, we can use that data to talk to our colleagues in Canada and other interested parties about what the needs of the territory really are and how we can go about addressing those needs."
Jack Anawak, who is working with Statistics Canada, says the organization is going to every community, and a translator will be provided if necessary.
"If there are people out there who don't think they should be counted, it means a loss of not as much money going into those services," he said.
Taking part in the census is mandatory. In a media release, Statistics Canada said failure to fill out a form could result in a $500 fine or up to three months jail time.