The Quarterly National Household Survey (QNHS) began in September 1997, replacing the annual April Labour Force Survey (LFS). The primary purpose of the survey is the production of quarterly labour force estimates, which includes information on employment, unemployment, occupations, regional and age group data etc.

The QNHS also produces reports on special social topics (e.g, Equality and Union membership).

Information is published quarterly and within two months of the reference period. QNHS data are also held on the CSO StatBank and published in the CSO's Statistical Yearbook. The QNHS is extensively used by universities and economists as well as having a large influence in policy making decision at both national and international level.