That’s the conclusion of an Angus Reid poll conducted between July 22-23.
In fact, according to the poll (margin of error 3.1 points), 52 per cent of Canadians think the government should reverse its decision and keep the mandatory long form census. Only 27 per cent support the decision to replace it with a voluntary form (24 per cent of Canadians think the long form is overly intrusive).
Nearly three in five Canadians think the long form yields data that is important in the formulation of public policy (53per cent of Conservative supporters).
In light of these data, don’t be surprised if the Harper government fashions some sort of climb down — likely in relation to the penalties for not filling out the form, or by eliminating a few of the more controversial questions.
UPDATE
According to the detailed poll results, almost half of respondents (47%) oppose the federal government’s decision to scrap the mandatory long form census, while 38 per cent support it. Opposition to the federal government’s move is highest in Ontario (54%) and British Columbia (53%).
Respondents who voted for the Conservative Party are almost evenly divided on this issue, with 42 per cent wanting the government to reverse its move, and 39 per cent arguing that the decision should stand.
