Pat Carey (Dublin North West, Fianna Fail)

There is certainly anecdotal evidence that it is proving extremely difficult to compile census data from, for example, gated communities and others. Anything up to a half dozen attempts would have been made in the previous census by enumerators to collect census forms. A substantial majority of the forms were ultimately collected and the information collated. I will find out for the Deputy the estimate for non-returned forms in the last census. I do not believe it will be possible using the 2011 census to establish the level of unoccupied dwellings in the State. It may, however, be possible by matching other data. Matching the €200 levy on second homes with local authority returns might for example be a way of getting some of the information required. Some mechanism of establishing the extent of unoccupied dwellings in the State will have to be found, be it through organisations such as the universities, the Economic and Social Research Institute, Central Statistics Office or Revenue Commissioners. While everybody is required by law to participate in the census, I will try to establish the level of participation in the last census and will forward the information to the Deputy.

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