The Census Pilot Survey took place between 2 September and 25 October 2024. The purpose of the Survey was to test new questions and methods for the next census. This is a crucial part of our preparations for the first ever national census where the public will have the option to complete their census form online.
The Survey was voluntary and took place in 20,000 homes across six counties. Census field staff were working in 44 locations within these counties offering support and help. The counties included Cork, Dublin, Kilkenny, Louth, Meath and Offaly. The Survey was also available to anyone outside of these areas who wished to participate. The CSO would also like to thank the census field staff for their hard work, dedication and commitment to their roles.
The Central Statistics Office report on the Census Pilot Survey 2024, including recommendations on the questions to be used in Census 2027, was agreed by the Census Advisory Group in mid 2025.
Census Pilot Survey Report 2024
The recruitment of the field staff for Census 2027 will take place during 2026 in three separate competitions (April 2026, September 2026 and November 2026) for a range of temporary contract roles. Details will be published on census.ie and the CSO website.
The Census Pilot Survey was part funded by the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (NRRP).
If you have any queries about the census please phone us at 01 895 1460 or email census@cso.ie