Census question unfair to fathers

I NOTICED that question 13 on the Census 2011 form “How many children have you given birth to?” is for women only.

I believe this question is an attempt at social engineering and is designed to whitewash fathers out of the lives of their children, contrary to the Equal Status acts 2000-2004 as it discriminates against men on the basis of gender, marital status and family status.

Census.ie states that “The census will give a comprehensive picture of the social and living conditions of our people in 2011. The results are essential tools for effective policy, planning and decision making purposes”.

It also claims that “The household form contains questions relating to household characteristics and individuals” yet there is no provision for a father to indicate that he has, or had, children, and so separated, divorced and unmarried fathers, along with widowers and adoptive fathers, will legitimately be excluded in any future policies, plans or decisions.

Cathal Garvey

Navan

Co Meath