New questions in 2011

Question 15. Other languages spoken

This question will ascertain what other languages are spoken in the home and the level of proficiency in spoken English of those who speak languages other than English or Irish at home.  

The question will provide data on what languages other than English or Irish are spoken in households.

It will also provide information on how well English is spoken by people who have a language other than English as their mother tongue. This information can be used to target state resources in areas such as education and health to support people who may struggle speaking English.

Question 18. General health

In this question each person is asked how their health is in general. Studies show strong links between how people view their health and the actual state of their health. The answers to this question will provide a country-wide picture of people’s health and how it is related to various factors such as age, etc.

There is evidence that the data gathered from this question corresponds with future health care levels. This is also a question used by Northern Ireland and including it will aid “whole island” statistics.