Article Summaries, present to past

British Columbia's population up from 2016 to 2021 censuses but fertility down.
posted February 8, 2024

BC Child Women Ratios well below average.

What's going on with current BC's demographic trends?

British Columbia's population grew substantially between the 2016 to 2021 censuses.
December 29, 2023

Did BC attract more elderly, families, people of working age 20 to 44 years old?

What's going on with current demographic trends?

From Misleading The Public To Determining Who Is 'Essential'
May 3, 2023

Correction: During my testimony at the National Citizens' Inquiry, I meant to say 'Infectious Fatality Rates' not 'Case Fatality Rates'...

How the authors of the British Columbia Center of Disease Control (BC CDC) Situation Reports, regarding the state of emergency declared on March 18, 2020, misrepresented the counts of Covid-19 deaths.

Do charlatans / fraudsters have the right to determine who is 'essential' and who is 'not-essential'?

COVID-19: Review of BC Center of Disease Control Situation Reports from March 23, 2020 to December 18, 2020.
April 27, 2023

The Declarations of a Public Health Emergency followed the next day by a State of Emergency in BC (declared March 17 and 18, 2020 respectively) were designed mostly to support people in positions of government authority by taking advantage of peoples' good will.

Cover letter to National Citizens' Inquiry

Canada's demographic shift
April 27, 2022

The total population data from the 2021 Census of Population, released in February earlier this year, showed the total population increased higher than the highest growth scenario calculated directly from the the Census counts from 1996 to 2016. The number of people 20 to 29 year olds doubled compared to the previous census period.

Which age groups increased the most?

Winter Cold or Deadly Pathogen? An Examination of Statistics Canada Datasets
April 6, 2022

This article examines government data produced by Statistics Canada: 1) to see if the number of deaths increased above normal variation in 2020, in Canada compared to previous years and 2) whether the number of deaths in 2021 were back to normal - within the highest and lowest numbers from the years prior to 2021. In other words, did the number of deaths in 2020 and 2021 increase or decrease above or below normal variation since 2000, or fall within normal/previous variation?


BC's 2021 Census Counts vs Projections calculated in 2017
March 10, 2022

BC's population increased by more than 300,000 people according to the 2021 Census of Population, above the Highest growth and Highest fertility (CWR) projections calculated, in 2017, directly from the 1996 to 2016 censuses.


Review of covid related restrictions. Open letter to Qualicum School District Board Members.
March 7, 2022

Recommendation: All Covid restrictions including maskings children, cease and desist immediately. For details with charts, map and tables see Appendix - 5 pages Refined: April 21, 2022


2021 Census Total Population compared to Population Projections Project calculate directly from the 1996 to 2016 Censuses
February 28, 2022
How does the 2021 Census of Population Total Population Count for Canada compare to the 5 Population Projection Scenarios calculated directly from 1996 to 2016 Censuses?

Review of covid related restrictions. Open letter to Comox Valley School District Board Members.
February 9, 2022

13 deaths, median age 87 years of age, 90%+ with life threatening ailments doesn't justify Provincial Government of British Columbia Minister of Public Safety, Mike Farnworth's declaration of a State of Emergency. Examination of the data in BC CDC 'Situation Report' March 23, 2020 (Appendix) - 5 pages Refined: April 21, 2022


2021 Census of Population; Canada's Land Area Decreased While Dwellings and Population Increased
February 9, 2022
Canada was too big (square kilometer wise) anyway

Letter to Dr. Bonnie Henry - Restrictions are not necessary
August 28, 2020
"This is a request for the reconsideration of orders under Section 43 (1) of the Public Health Act, S.B.C. 2008."
"Should people gathering in peaceful assembly be penalized for no justifiable, nor well founded reason? Should businesses be closed and or restricted for no justifiable, nor well founded reason? Of course not."

Was the WHO Justified in Endorsing China's Lockdown? Should Children be Forced to Wear Masks and or Kept Apart?
August 21, 2020
This article will add a way to look at the effectiveness of Innate Human Immunity versus Government Intervention. This addition helps put into perspective the impact (if any) government policies may have had on the spread of the Sars CoV 2 virus in comparison with the impact (if any) of innate human immunity.
How? Add what a normal distribution of cases and deaths would look like - a bell curve.
Just a reminder, this is not about whether data from China, or any other country, is reliable or not. This is about looking at the open public data from China, and determining whether or not the WHO was justified in endorsing China's lockdown as a model for other countries to follow.

Did Innate Human Immunity Stop the Pandemic or Did Government Restrictions?
May 14, 2020
A look at China's daily counts of cases and deaths along with the dates of restrictions. Did the counts drop after restrictions? Or did counts increase after restrictions? Let's take a look at COVID-19: Understated or overstated or stated just right?

Enrolment Higher than Forecasted: Comox Valley School District
March 4, 2020
Forecasts of lower enrolment = School closures. School closures + increase in number of school aged children = less capacity. Were too many schools closed? Perhaps the time has come to return to basic population forecasting standards? What standards?

Neighbourhood Surrounding the Pacific National Exhibition - Northeast Vancouver CT 0053.01 - Demographic Shift
November 18, 2019

Nestled in the northeast corner of Vancouver, with the transcanada highway on the eastern boundary carrying thousands of vehicles daily over the Burrard Inlet on the Ironworker's Memorial Bridge, this neighborhood surrounding the Pacific National Exhibition did not share in Vancouver's population growth over the last decade and a half concealing a fundamental demographic shift. What demographic shift?


Population Projections Project - Census Area: Census Tract 0053.01, N. East Vancouver, B.C.
November 17, 2019

Age Distribution; Population Signature; Age Sex Distribution; Total Population; Dependency Ratios


Chilliwack's Rolling Waves of Age Distribution Turbulance
March 4, 2019

What will the Age Distributions look like for the next censuses yet to come? Are we in for a smooth ride or a rough ride?


Chilliwack's Current Demographic Trends, Broad Age Groups and Dependency Ratios, 1996 to 2046
March 4, 2019

The number of Elders (65+) surpasses the number of children (under 15 years of age) as Chilliwack's Dependency Ratio rises above the Canadian average.


Chilliwack's Child Women Ratios shift from teens to twenties
February 15, 2019

While teen and early 20 year old females had the highest ratio to young children in 1996, by 2016 the highest ratios shifted to the 20 to 24 and the 25 to 29 female year age groups. Only the 30 to 34 year old female age group had a decline in child women ratios between 2011 and 2016. What about the other age groups?


Chilliwack's Population Signature, 1996 to 2016.
February 12, 2019

Chilliwack's population increase slowed substantially during the most recent census period (2011 to 2016). Which age groups had the biggest changes?


Chilliwack's Age Distribution - some smooth, some unsteady
February 7, 2019

Let's see if the 2016 census age distribution fell within the range of the highest and lowest trends reflected in the 1996 to 2011 census.


Chilliwack's population growth slowed between 2011 and 2016
January 22, 2019

How does the slower than average growth impact the total population projection to 2046?


Young Adults Boost Capital Regional District Total Population
November 12, 2018

Capital Regional District population growth highest in 20 years. Which age groups had the largest increases?


Where have all the Nanaimo Area F adults gone?
October 25, 2018

Nanaimo Area F, inland from the Parksville Census Agglomeration had an unexpected demographic shift


Population Projections Project addition - Golden BC.
September 22, 2018

Golden's total population increased between 1996 and 2001, unlike most municipalities across Canada. Nonetheless, total population will decline even if the strongest growth over the last 20 years were to continue for the next 20 years.


Population Projections Project addition - Revelstoke BC.
August 27, 2018

Relatively large increase in 25 to 34 year olds but Child Women Ratios stay low.


Young families benefit from more housing as boomers down-size.
June 5, 2018

Elders move out of single detached houses, help to increase supply. Let's take a look.


Culture Shifts in the Village of Cumberland
May 24, 2018

Attractive to tree planters and out door recreation enthusiasts, the Village of Cumberland attracts young adults but what's happening with the number of chidren? Let's take a look.


The End of the Boom Bust Cycle?
May 5, 2018

Resource extraction varies in responce to rising and falling prices. Has the transition from raw material exports to tourism and accomodation impacted demographic trends? Let's take a look.


Young Children Keep Comox Strathcona Total Population from Declining
April 24, 2018

After the 1996 to 2001 decline, the total population has continued to increase. The area is attractive to families and retirees. But is this enough to compensate for out-migration and mortality? Let's take a look.


Finding the End of the Rise of the Boomers
April 20, 2018

To find the end of the rise of the boomers, look at Canada's oldest census agglomeration in terms of median age). The Parksville Census Agglomeration 1996 to 2016 Age Distribution with 2021, 2026 Scenarios reveals The End of the Rise of the Boomers


Up and Down Age Fluctuations Impact Nanaimo Regional District
March 8, 2018

If Current Demographic Trends Continue, Nanaimo Regional District Is In For A Big Change. What will the Nanaimo Regional District age distribution look like in 2021 if current demographic trends continue?


Nanaimo Regional District Attracts Families
March 7, 2018

Comparing the 2016 High, Average, and Low Scenarios with the 2016 Census of Population counts by age for the Nanaimo Regional District. Let's take a look at Nanaimo Regional District Attracts Families.


Has Quantitative Easing Had An Impact On Canada's Boom Bust Economy?
November 14, 2017

Comparing the 2016 Population Projection Scenarios with the 2016 Census of Population counts by the number of people by age. Let's take a look at Canada's changing migration patterns. Also available as a .pdf.


Echo Larger than the Boom, British Columbia's Future Demographics
October 20, 2017

You thought that the baby boom was bad - a tsunami leaving a trail of demographic destruction. Wait 'til you see British Columbia's next wave of retirees.


Fertility in Canada, Current Trends
October 13, 2017

Fertility, for Canada in 2011, rebounded from the lows in 2001 and 2006 to near the 1996 level. Did this upward trend continue?


Comparing the 2016 Census Counts of the Number of People by Age with the 2016 Projection Scenarios for British Columbia
Portion of Presentation at the International Conference of Population Geographies, June 29, 2017, posted September 13, 2017

The Population Projections Project methods and data have proven to be a valuable source of demographic information not only at the national level, but also to the provincial/territorial level. Let's take a look at the changing age distribution for British Columbia.


Comparing the 2016 Projection Scenarios Calculated Directly from the 1996 to 2011 Censuses of Population with the 2016 Census Counts, Age Distributions, Qualicum Beach
Portion of Presentation at the International Conference of Population Geographies, June 29, 2017, posted September 13, 2017

The Population Projections Project methods and data have proven to be a valuable source of demographic information not only at the national level, but also to the local level. Let's take a look at the oldest town (in terms of median age) in Canada as it is a harbinger of things to come for the rest of the nation.


How accurate was the Nanaimo Regional District consultant's forecast compared to the 2016 census and the PPP scenarios?
Portion of Presentation at the International Conference of Population Geographies, June 29, 2017, posted September 10, 2017

...and what about the forecast for 2036 compared to the Population Projection project's scenarios?Let's take a look.


An unexpected demographic change in the Nanaimo Regional District,
Portion of Presentation at the International Conference of Population Geographies, June 29, 2017, posted August 24, 2017

How do the population projection scenarios calculated directly from the previous (1996 to 2011) censuses compare to the actual 2016 census count for the Nanaimo Regional District. Let's take a look.


Retiree Population Increases, but Where is the Help?
June 13, 2017

Over the next 20 years (to 2036) there will be twice as many people 65 years of age and over compared to the number of people of working age if current demographic trends continue. Let's take a look.


Retiree Migration from the GVRD to Parksville Census Agglomeration
June 10, 2017

The rapid increase in the number of people 65 years of age and older in the "Demographic Tsunami Epicentre: Greater Vancouver Regional District" (August 2015) should result in more out-migration to surrounding areas. But is the rising number of people 65 and over in the GVRD matching the number of people 65 and over in the Parksville and Qualicum Beach area? Let's take a look at the Parksville/Qualicum area.


IMF Misunderstands Canada's Changing Population
June 3, 2017

The International Monetary Fund tells Canadians their economy is hobbled by an aging population and sets new standards for information gathering (surveillance) and dissemination. Will Canadians by better or worse off following the IMF? Let's take a look at the IMF's fundamental misunderstanding of Canada's changing population.


Qualicum Beach dependency ratios 1996 to 2046
June 1, 2017

As is often the case, small, little, or no change in total population may hide large changes within. For example, the number of elderly may rise rapidly and the number of people of working age may decline while the total population may not change at all. Let's take a look at Qualicum Beach dependency ratios.


Qualicum Beach population projection scenarios 2016 to 2046
May 31, 2017

Qualicum Beach has the oldest population in terms of median age of any municipality in Canada. While attractive to both the elderly and to families, (the 20 year olds are out of here), population projections scenarios calculated directly from the censuses of population since 1996 show a wide range of possible futures. Let's take a look.


Parksville Census Agglomeration 2016 Census Age Distribution Counts Compared to Projection Scenarios
May 20, 2017

Although the total population projection average scenario is almost exactly the same as the actual census count for Parksville Census Agglomeration (Oceanside) - less than 1% difference, there are differences for the five year age groups. Let's take a look.


Parksville Census Agglomeration 2016 Census Counts Compared to Projection Scenarios
May 11, 2017

Population projections are thought to be most accurate for large population areas, and less accurate, even unreliable for small population areas such as the Parksville Census Agglomeration - the oldest median age in Canada. Let's see.


2016 Census of Population: Will Demographic Shifts Catch Experts By Surprise Again?
May 5, 2017

"Canada�s latest baby boom caught experts by surprise" was the title of an article in the National Post, July 4, 2014, printed more than 2 years after this trend was revealed in Canada�s 2011 Census of Population and Dwelling, Age Sex released May 28, 2012. With the 2016 Census available, will demographic shifts catch experts by surprise again?


1996 to 2016 Census Counts Compared to Projection Scenarios for 2016
May 4, 2017

Canada's age distribution continues to change making planning public service at least difficult. Fortunately there are dedicated Population Analysts who make an effort to understand where we are and where we are heading on current demographic trends. But are they doing a good job or are they just misleading us? Let's check.


2016 Counts Compared to Projection Scenarios Calculated from the 1996 to 2011 Censuses
May 3, 2017

In Canada, the number of people by their age varies considerably. These fluctuations make planning difficult. Who are you going to call? Population Analysts?


Canada's Provinces and Territories Census of Population Change between 2011 and 2016 Map and Chart
April 25, 2017

Canada's population increased by 5% between 2011 and 2016, but there was considerable variation between the Provinces and Territories. Let's take a look.


Surrey Population Growth Strongest
April 8, 2017

While serving as a BC Government Population Analyst, I wrote a paper describing the reason that BC Stats' post census population estimates were so wrong compared to the census counts. It was in part because the data being used (electrical and telephone landline hookups) were not seeing the rapid growth in the number of people per household in Surrey. Is Surrey still growing strong? Let's take a look.


Boom? What Boom?
April 3, 2017

In early February 2008, at a meeting with local developers (coastal British Columbia), I was asked "when will the next economic downturn begin". "We are already in it" I replied. "When will it end then? "2015 give or take a year". The question now is what will the upturn look like? Let's take a look.


Mistakes? What Mistakes?
March 10, 2017

With so many successes, surely some mistakes must have been made. Yes, in January 2008, I said that due to the rapidly rising number of deaths in Qualicum Beach, the population was already going down. But this was a mistake. Fortunately, this revealed an important trend. What happened and what was done?


Squamish Area Population Above Highest Growth Scenario
March 2, 2017

The population growth between 2011 and 2016 was marginally higher than the highest growth scenario calculated by the Population Projections Project. Let's take a look.


British Columbia's Growth Slows But Marginally Higher Than Average
March 2, 2017

BC's population growth between 2011 and 2016 was marginally higher than the average over the previous fifteen years. Let's take a look.


Official (Fake) Population Statistics: From School District Enrolment Forecasts to BCStats Population Numbers to Canada's Equalization Payment Program
February 24, 2017

Not only did the School District 69 (Qualicum) administration withhold the methods and data that should have accompanied the lowered enrolment forecast used to justify public elementary school closures, but the provincial government�s Official Statistical Agency, BC Statistics, did this as well, for over a decade. Letter to the Editor


The Population Projections Project: Analytic Tool versus Predictive Tool
February 14, 2017

Although one of the Population Projections Project (PPP) scenarios was almost exactly the same as Canada's 2016 Census of Population result, the PPP is more about understanding where we are and where we are heading on current demographic trends than pretending to foretell the future. Let's take another look. Watch the video.


Population Projections Project Scenarios Compared To 2016 Census Of Population
February 8, 2017

The 2016 Census of Population counts for Canada as a whole came in at just over 35 million people. How does this result compare with the Population Projections Project's (PPP) 5 possible population projection scenarios calculated directly from Canada's 1996, 2001, 2006, and 2011 Censuses of Population for Canada? Let's take a look.


Higher Than Expected School Enrolments. Why were 25% of Schools Closed?
January 28, 2017

My requests for the methods and data used to create the new (lower) enrolment forecast elicited this reply: "Any attempt to imply a grassy knoll conspiracy theory is disrespectful.." (Superintendent of School R. Koop implied). Let's take a look at why 4 of 15 schools were closed just as enrolment was going up again.


Child Woman Ratios, Comparing Census Counts to Estimates
November 26, 2016

The number of children under 5 years of age relative to the number of females of child bearing age (Child Woman Ratio - CWR) is changing. Let's take a look.


Promoting The Study And Development Of The Science Of Demography For Secondary School Teachers And Students
November 16, 2016

Could the Provincial Government of British Columbia endorse introducing secondary school teachers and students to current national to local demographic trends calculated from the Census of Population counts as part of the Grade 11 social studies course, demography unit? Letter to MLA Stilwell No reply to date.


Download a Table of Discovery Revealing Canada's Demographic Trends
November 16, 2016

Watch for changes in fertility, life expectancy, and migration. Download a table of Canada's Census of Population counts over the last 20 years. Follow the instructions to calculate several projection scenarios for 2016. Create a Table of Discovery for your area (Province/Territory, region, city, town village or census tract). Compare your areas scenarios with the actual 2016 census counts when they come out February 2017.


0 to 4 and 5 to 9 year olds, Comparing Census Counts to Estimates
November 7, 2016

Broad Age Groups Projections, Comparing Census Counts to Estimates
November 6, 2016

Dependency Ratios Projections, Comparing Census Counts to Estimates
November 5, 2016

Total Population Projections, Comparing Census Counts to Estimates
November 4, 2016

To shine a light on where we are and where we are heading on current demographic trends the Population Projections Project calculates several population projections scenarios directly from Censuses of Population counts. But the counts miss some people. Let's look at total population trends calculated from Statistics Canada's estimates compared to trends calculated from the Census of Population counts.


Even with One Of The Best Statistical Agencies In The World, Canadians Have Fundamental Misunderstandings About Demographics Trends.
October 20, 2016

Given the remarkable assortment of specialists, the regular recordings of population available through news distribution outlets as well as directly from Statistics Canada�s website, Canadians should be among to the most informed societies in the world - intelligently participating in setting of national priorities. Examples Of Misunderstanding Where Canadians Are And Where Canadians Are Heading On Current Demographic Trends.


Diagnosis Versus Prediction
October 14, 2016

Are BC Statistics' method and data of "better quality" than Statistics Canada's? Here's how BC Statistics officials' deceived Statistics Canada.


Is Fertility in Canada Going Up Again?
October 6, 2016

More children under 5 years old, more females 15 to 44 years of age and the number of young children per females 15 to 44 back up to near 1996 levels.


Are Population Projections Accurate?
September 30, 2016

Males and Females - Ageing More Closely
August 21,2016

Growing Apart: Marginally More Males, Marginally More Females, Many More Females
May 6,2016

The portion of males and females change at the age of 20 and again at the age of 60. Such is the dance of life in Canada


Whiterock: From Seaside Resort Town To Suburb.
April 21,2016

Whiterock, on the south side of the GVRD, has a very different population signature than Squamish, on the north side of the GVRD. Why is Whiterock attractive to 40 and 50 year olds and teenagers? Why has the number of 75 to 79 year olds dropped by 20% (Canada saw an increase of 5%) while the number of 60 to 64 year olds more than doubled ???


Some places are attractive to tree planters such as Cumberland, BC; Kootenay Central Regional District, BC; and Nelson, BC.
March 27, 2016

Three of Canada's census areas have been added to the Population Projections Project, namely, Cumberland, BC; Kootenay Central Regional District, BC; and Nelson, BC. Are tree planters moving in or out or what?


Ucluelet and Pangnirtung School Age Children
March 21, 2016

Ucluelet and Pangnirtung are similar in that both are in close proximity to National Parks and both host raw resource extraction activity; however, Ucluelet's changing demographic reflects the beginning of a transition from resource extraction to tourism and accommodation. Will Pangnirtung experience an economic as well as social transition?


Baffin Region, Deaths and Net Migration, 2001, 2006
March 18, 2016

Since the Baffin Region has a triangular age sex distribution and deaths appear to not visit all 5 year age groups equally (as reflected in the oscillations), we should look at the number of deaths by age and sex. With this we will also be able to calculate, and therefore see more clearly, net migration by age.


Baffin Region's Changing Population
February 10, 2016

Why is the Baffin Region so popular for 25 to 29 year olds?


Baffin Region, Current Demographic Trends
November 25, 2015

What are the current demographic trends? In-migration, out-migration, fertility, life expectancy?


Squamish British Columbia; Age Distribution Changes, 1996 to 2011
September 25, 2015

Squamish: the Greater Vancouver Regional District's newest bedroom community.


Demographic Tsunami Epicentre: Greater Vancouver Regional District, Part 3
September 15, 2015

Will the demographic tsunami emanating from the Greater Vancouver Regional District (GVRD) take advantage of the highway improvements out of the north west corner, improvements pushed through to the Squamish-Lillooet Regional District (Census Division)?


Demographic Tsunami Epicentre: Greater Vancouver Regional District, Part 2
August 26, 2015

Although Sunshine Coast Regional District reaches well within the 100 km radius from the centre of the Greater Vancouver Regional District, the population increase was low between 2006 and 2011 compared to other areas with road access. Let's take a look.


Narrowing of Working Age Distributions, Canada, 1996 to 2041
July 21, 2015

As many energetic, driven, inexperienced young adults as there will be wise, thoughtful, experienced old adults? Let's take a look.


Reaching the End; Life Expectancy in Canada
July 15, 2015

On average, Canadians are living longer than ever before. But will life expectancy continue to increase? Let's take a look.


Demographic Tsunami Epicentre: Greater Vancouver Regional District
July 14, 2015

The geographic epicentre of the demographic tsunami underway on the west coast of Canada is the GVRD where the number of people entering retirement age is increasing by 40% along with increases in the number of young children. Read more.


Fraser Valley Regional District; Current Demographics
July 7, 2015

Fraser Valley RD, Age Distribution, Population Signatures, Age Sex Distribution, Total Population and Dependency Ratios. Here's what they look like.


Dependency Ratios Compared, Fraser Valley RD to Hope 1996 to 2041
June 26, 2015

Hope's dependency ratio (the number of children and elderly relative to 10 people of working age) helps to drag the Fraser Valley Regional District's dependency ratio away from the BC and Canadian average. Here's what they look like.


Some Young, Some Old; Dependency Ratios Compared
May 25, 2015

Dependency ratios, Canada, BC, Ft.St. John, and Qualicum Beach, compared.


Hope for Hope?
May 24, 2015

Some retiring baby boomers will move out of high density areas to small towns outside of the high commuter flow areas. With the small town of Hope located at the eastern end of the Fraser valley just 2 hours from Vancouver, will more retirees move in than out? Will the perfect demographic storm reach the coast mountains and what does the future look like?


Oil Patch Population Changes - Fort Saint John Demographics and the Global Economy
May 2, 2015

GLOBAL FOSSIL FUEL PRODUCTION increases resulting in declining prices have impacts on the population of producer cities such as Fort Saint John British Columbia. What does the future look like?


Canada's Oldest Median Age Community - The Canary In A Coal Mine?
March 22, 2015

PROVIDING INSIGHT into the future for the rest of Canada is Canada's oldest median age community, Qualicum Beach, like the canary in a coal mine?


Life Expectancy Compared
February 28, 2015

In an effort to explain why the Qualicum District's population is forecast to increase by over 30% to the year 2030, the BC Ministry of Health representative suggested longer life expectancy was the reason. Really?


The Perfect Demographic Storm?
December 18, 2014

Where will the Baby Boomers move next? And what about young children and their parents. Areas outside of high commuter flows may see an influx of both.


Big Data and the Third Sector, Workshop #2, Edinburgh, Scotland
November 25, 2014

This is an abridged version of the Big Data and the Third Sector Workshop #2 - Why the Population Projection Project was developed?

$10 million expansion plus entire school recommended for permanent closure 7 years after opening; forecast method provided by Official Statistical Agency was not the method used; disclosure of assessment of method denied - disclosure harmful to senior government officials rather than harmful to intergovernmental relations? Big Data and the Third Sector Workshop #2.


Change in Canada's Broad Age Groups
November 24, 2014

We live in the last half of the one hundred year revolution shaped by the transition from above to below replacement fertility.

What impacts will there be? Let's take a look at a chart of the recent changes in Canada's broad age groups with the addition of a medium scenario population projection. Read ...


Healthy Culture Anyone? Examples of Canada's "sick" and "unhealthy" culture along with easily implementable cures from small towns to the national level.
November 7, 2014
In 2012, BC's Premier Clark expressed some of the frustration many people in the province have experienced, namely the "unhealthy" culture within the provincial capital, Victoria BC. A cure for an unhealthy culture may not be easy to find; however, Premier Clark suggested communities, places where people live and work and express their concerns, may play a role.

But how can people at the community level participate when we must use numbers created in Victoria to make local level decisions, and when we point out discrepancies, deficiencies, provide alternative information, and suggest improvements, public service senior staff can use tax payer's dollars to hire lawyers to threaten tax payers (as well as public service employees who may also point out deficiencies) with paying damages to the public service senior staff for defamation?


Flower Power Generation Ages into Retirement
October 31, 2014

While helping to bring an end to exporting carnage into south east asia, this generation also helped end the population pyramid. Read ...


Age Distribution Oscillations To Mid 21st Century
September 23, 2014

If current (1996 to 2011) demographic trends continue, the age distribution will continue to oscillate - boom, bust, echo, bust, echo, bust, echo, etc. Read ...


20th to 21st Century Age Distribution Oscillations
September 17, 2014

During the last 50 years of the 20th century, a demographic revolution occurred in Canada. The often referred to population pyramid gave way to a very different age/sex distribution begging another title to reflect the reality of the 21st century. Read ...


Will The Baby Boomers Leave A Trail Of Demographic Devastation?
September 16, 2014

According to Carleton University professor, Linda Duxbury, "The huge group of baby boomers leaving the labour market is going to have repercussions in every workplace." To make up for the shortfall "we would require 650,000 to 750,000 skilled immigrants of working age every year." Really? Let's check!


Canada Versus the Population Pyramid Dependency Ratios
August 17, 2014

With below replacement fertility and the rise of the elders, how does Canada�s age/sex distribution compare to the often referred to population pyramid. Read ...


Canada's Population Versus the Population Pyramid
August 10, 2014

With below replacement fertility and the rise of the elders, how does Canada�s age/sex distribution compare to the often referred to population pyramid Read ...


Should we be closing elementary schools? A look at the fluctuations in the number of 5 to 9 year olds in Canada's west coast province, BC, 1996 to 2041.
July 25, 2014

Since the number of 0 to 4 year olds counted in 2011 was considerably higher than those in this age group counted in 2006 in BC, we should see the number of those 5 to 9 years of age increase between 2011 and 2016. Let's take a look. Read ...


Should we be closing elementary schools? A look at the fluctuations in the number of 5 to 9 year olds in Canada, 1996 to 2041.
July 22, 2014

Since the number of 0 to 4 year olds counted in 2011 was considerably higher than those in this age group counted in 2006, we should see the number of those 5 to 9 years of age increase between 2011 and 2016. Let's take a look. Read ....


Oh? Canada's Dependency Ratios!
July 2, 2014

Now that we have looked at the projection (medium scenario) for young children and seen the numbers fluctuate between 1.7 and 2 million, as well as females 25 to 34 years of age, let's take a look at the impact of the rising of the elderly.

Read ....


Up and Down, Up and Down - Canada's Teeter Tottering Children Population
July 1, 2014

Happy Birthday Canada! Recent demographic trends show that the number of children under 5 years of age declined then rose again between 1996 and 2011. What does the future look like if current trends continue?

Read ....


Families are also attracted to Prince Edward County and Parksville Census Agglomeration (aka Oceanside)
June 16, 2014

Both areas, Parksville CA and Prince Edward County, are attractive to families and retirees but not to young adults.

Read ....


Greener Pastures, But Where's The Help? A Look At One Of Ontario's Retirement Areas, Prince Edward County
June 14, 2014

Will there be enough young adults to meet the demands of the rising elderly population? Let's take a look at picturesque Prince Edward County on the north shore of Lake Ontario, outside of the high commuter flows of Toronto, with about the same population size as Canada's oldest community, in terms of median age, the Parksville Census Agglomeration.

Read ....


Dependency Ratios for Tofino and Ucluelet
June 12, 2014

What do Alberta and the west coast municipalities of Tofino and Ucluelet have in common? They are attractive to young adults with fewer children resulting in lower numbers of dependents relative to those of working age. But what about the baby boomers retiring?

Read ....


Broad Age Group Changes in Tofino and Ucluelet
June 11, 2014

Two substantial changes between 1996 and 2011: For Ucluelet, children (0 to 19 years of age) decline by ~40%; for Tofino, number of working age (20 to 64) doubled. The result? A brief lowering of the number of dependents relative to those of working age.

Read ....


Outdoor Recreation to Family Formation in Tofino and Ucluelet
June 4, 2014

How attractive are Tofino and Ucluelet for males and females by age?

Read ....


From Resource Extraction to Tourism and Accommodation - Ucluelet's Changing Demographics
May 9, 2014

Ucluelet looses population and resource extraction jobs and people from all age groups only to be followed by years of attracting more and more young adults, and children.

Read ....


The Sign On the Maternity Ward Door says "Gone Surfing"
April 7, 2014

For many young adults, small towns are unattractive - 20 to 29 year olds get out of town, rapidly, in favour of education, employment and social opportunities in larger population centers.

Bucking this trend is Tofino, on Canada's West Coast, a small town very attractive to young adults, many moving out of large population centers in favour of living closer to the wild, wide spaces and surfing.

But while the number of females 20 to 39 years of age has doubled from approximately 220 to 435 since 1996, the number of children under 5 rose by approximately 15.

Read ....


Disclosure Of Methods Report Considered Harmful
March 30, 2014

The Qualicum School District's last facility review in 2010-2011 included BC Statistics' false reporting of methods used to create population numbers. The method provided by BC Statistics did not show that BC Statistics used the change in the number of telephone lines as an indicator of population change, nor the many other influences on the final numbers. For this most recent facility review, 2013-2014, methods were simply not provided. Requests for the methods were met with accusations of "conspiracy theorists".

Help safeguard the integrity of population projection numbers used to justify public policy making by insisting on well-defined scenarios based on current demographic trends that can be verified and reproduced.

Read ....


Why Open Schools When Enrolment Is Declining and Close Schools When Enrolment Is Increasing?
March 25, 2014

Recall in 2010, just 7 years and 1 month after opening a $9.1 million expansion in 2003, the Qualicum School District recommended permanently closing the $9.1 million expansion along with the original high school.

Having served as the Population Analyst for BC Statistics from 2002 to 2006, I continue to advocate that correct methods must accompany findings. Be sure to get clear explanations of how forecasts used to justify opening and closing schools are made.

Read ....


VIHA forecasts 30% total population increase while the Qualicum School District Superintendent forecasts 0% increase for school age children.
March 18, 2014, (with chart added March 25)

Medical Health Officer for the Qualicum Local Health Area, Dr. Hasselback presented a chart showing a 31% increase in population by the year 2030 - from approximately 46,500 to 61,000 an increase of 14,400 people.

On the other hand, Rollie Koop, Superintendent of the Qualicum School District is prepared to close 4 schools based on a forecast (without providing the reasoning) of 0% increase in persons of school age to the year 2027.

Read ....


Qualicum School District Has Not Considered "Future Enrolment Growth In The District Of Persons Of School Age, Persons Of Less Than School Age And Adults"
March 17, 2014

When schools are recommended for closure, a public consultation is required to ensure "a fair consideration of the community�s input and adequate opportunity for the community to respond to a board�s proposal to close the school permanently", as well as to ensure fair consideration of "future enrolment growth in the district of persons of school age, persons of less than school age and adults".

Public consultation participants have a choice, use open transparent, well defined projections.


Superintendent of Schools Considers Questions About Enrolment Forecast To Be Disrespectful
March 14, 2014

Newly appointed Superintendent of Schools, Rollie Koop, dismisses requests for the assumptions behind new lower enrolment forecast claiming community members who ask are "disrespectful".


The Difference between Projections and Forecasts
March 12, 2014

What is the difference between projections and forecasts?

Open, published methods and data used to create well defined scenarios, versus pretending to foretell the future


The Population Projection Project allows numbers to be verified and reproduced
March 4, 2014

For projections that are valid (can be validated) use the Population Projection Project.

The Population Projection Project is an open, public reference to be used when considering the future enrolment growth for areas in Canada of persons of school age, persons of less than school age and adults.

Since the Qualicum School District staff and board members are not allowing the public to see the method used to create the new (lower) forecast, be sure to use the Population Projection Project.


Qualicum School District Facility Review. Enrolment Rate of Change
February 28, 2014

Has the enrolment decline bottomed out and is it about to rise again in 2016/17 as forecast in 2010? Or will the enrolment decline more than expected as Baragar foretells?

One way to check is to look at the rate of change in enrolment.

Another way is to look at the enrolment of the students in Kindergarten to grade 5.

See the rate of change and the Elementary enrolment ...


Qualicum School District Facility Review. Is the unfounded forecast pretending to foretell the future?
February 25, 2014

Why is the updated forecast lower that the previous forecast?

Why is the updated method not published?

"Forecasting pretends to foretell the future." (Ivan Fellegi, 1999).

See the forecast comparisons.


Compare projections for Canada - United Nations, Statistics Canada, Cohort Change Ratios
February 14, 2014

Why are Statistics Canada's projections so high compared to the United Nations and the Cohort Change Ratios projections?

Why so different?


Fluctuating Dependency Ratios
January 3, 2014

What does the Sandwich Generation look like? Starting alphabetically with Alberta.

Dependency Swap - From Fewer Children to More Elderly.


Verify Population Projection Numbers
December 4, 2013

In an interview with CTV we discussed 1) The importance of caution when using statistics and 2) What is happening with the enrolment in Central Vancouver Island areas.

Read ....


Comparison of the number of people residing in BC Coast Census Divisions (Regional Districts).
November 6, 2013

While the north west coastal regions lose population, the Greater Vancouver Regional District received a disproportional high population increase between 2006 and 2011

The number of people residing in the southern portion of the coast grew from 2.6 million to over 3.2 million between 1996 and 2011.

See BC Coast Census Divisions (Regional Districts) population proportions.


Comparison of the number of people residing in Canada's Provinces and Territories.
November 5, 2013

Between 2006 and 2011, Canada experienced population changes from east to west but also from rural to urban.

Yet, the increase in population for Alberta and BC, when added together, was less than the increase for Ontario.

See Canada�s Population proportions.


Population Changes in the Penticton Census Agglomeration
September 25, 2013

The Penticton CA was less attractive to retirees between 2006 and 2011 with more out-migration and death than in-migration for those 60 to 69 years of age.

The number of those 30 to 45 years of age has dropped by 30% since 1996 while the number of young adults (20 to 29) stayed relatively stable.

Read more...


Population Projections for Parksville Census Agglomeration
September 22, 2013

Population declines may happen around the year 2026 for much of the census agglomeration. But Qualicum Beach may be experiencing declines earlier. If so, those born this year will be 8 years old when the declines come. What might it be like?

Read about "6 Population Projections for Parksville Census Agglomeration"...


June 6, 2013
Guess who was in the audience at my presentation "Population Projections for Community Members" - the people from BC Statistics who, after I raised concerns about the non-statistical and substandard methods and models (including using the change in telephone landline hookups as an indicator of population change and not telling anyone including Finance Canada regarding equalization payments), accused me of not being able to control my behaviour, apparently making my co-workers fear for their safety and had me dismissed for insubordination, with Vince Ready endorsing the block to arbitration into the real matters in dispute. What a bunch.
"We found that the methods (and data) provided by BC Statistics to community members and to Statistics Canada were not the methods (and data) used to create population numbers." Why Verify Official Population Projections

A Comparison of Population Projections for BC
March 21, 2013

With fertility below replacement (less than 2 children per female), the 'boomers' ageing, and mortality increasing rapidly, why is the BC government population projection 'up and to the right'? Why do BC government interprovincial migration projections scenarios not include negative net migration?

Government population projections for BC reflect an "up and to the right" aspiration, while the cohort change ratios method shows BC's population growth slowing, and levelling out. Read a "A Comparison of Population Projections for BC"...


G8 Nations Population Projections and Economic Activity
February 12, 2013

Declining population is considered by some to be beneficial for "the environment". On the other hand, declines are considered by some to be detrimental to economic activity. Is there a way to maintain or improve quality of life and prosperity as population growth slows, levels out, or declines?

Read ...


Population projections for Parksville Census Agglomeration to 2041
November 23, 2012

Parksville Census Agglomeration is one of the oldest, in terms of median age of residents, regions in Canada. What does the future look like?

While deaths continue to increase and births stay relatively low, below replacement, population can only increase with even more in-migration than out-migration.

Read ...


Population projections for Qualicum Beach to 2041
November 20, 2012

With deaths exceeding births by nearly 6 times (600%) and rising, will the fluctuating migration keep the town's total population from declining?

Read ...


3 population projections for Canada are compared: the United Nations, Statistics Canada, and WM Population Analysis
October 22, 2012
WM Population Analysis methods provide similar population projection (medium scenario) with the United Nations Read ...

Couple families by presence of children in private households, 2011 counts, children (under 24 years of age), for Canada, provinces and territories
September 19, 2012
Percent of census families with children (under 24 years of age) at home declines. Read ...

Population Analysis of the Nanaimo Regional District
August 15, 2012
Population analysis of the Nanaimo Regional District with age / sex distribution projection to 2041 (new improved animation added September 22, 2012). Read ...

2011 Census Counts versus Projection for Parksville CA
June 13, 2012
Short term population projection comparison with the 2011 Census counts. Read ...

Should Local Parents Question Official Statistics?
June 12, 2012
Some people are saying that a local News Editor attempted to discredit a local parent for "questioning official numbers". What do you think? Did the parent, who asked for enrolment numbers since the school (proposed for closure) was first opened, lead community members including the Mayor astray? Read ...

Canada, Age Distribution, 1996, 2001, 2006, 2011 Census Counts
May 30, 2012
Fluctuations in Canada's Age Distribution create a challenge for those dealing with Community plans. Read ...

BC, Age Distribution, 1996, 2001, 2006, 2011 Census Counts
May 29, 2012
The large shifts in age distribution highlights the dynamics of BC's changing population. Read ...

Participation in Global Knowledge Economy starts Locally
April 18, 2012
Communities that encourage public consultation, scientific inquiry, the exchange of information, thoughtful discussion, and engage students, young and old, in local issues are both better informed and better able to participate, and gain high paying jobs, in the growing global knowledge economy. Read ...

BC's Annual Net Interprovincial Migration is negative for the first time since 2002
April 6, 2012
Alternatives to resource extraction, refinement, and services for tourists and retirees, such as high paying jobs in the global knowledge economy may provide opportunities that reduce the fluctuations in economic activity. Read ...

Nanaimo Regional District Population and Dwelling Counts, 2006 to 2011
March 15, 2012
There were only an estimated 1.7 people per each of the additional private occupied dwellings. Read ...

The population counts for the census subdivisions surrounding the Central Salish Sea
February 20, 2012
There were modest population count increases for some csds, and modest decreases for others. Overall, approximately 3,000 more people were counted in 2011 than were counted in the 2006 census. Read ....

Population change varies for BC's Regional Districts between 2006 and 2011
February 8, 2012
Southern RDs had population increases while the North experienced declines. See the map of the percent population change for BC RDs between 2006 and 2011.

Is it true, does Statistics Canada consider BC Stats' population estimation methods to be of "better quality"?
January 27, 2012
However, Statistics Canada's Demography Division says that BC Stats' did not consult with the Demography Division regarding BC Stats use of the change in telephone landlines hookups to estimate population change. Read more...

What to Look For in the 2011 Census
January 8, 2012
Population Signatures comparing changes in age distribution with previous census years can reveal important information about the change in number of people by age and sex for communities, towns, cities, regions, and provinces.
Population Signatures can provide relevant information when considering school openings and closures. Read more...

BC Population Change, 3rd Quarter, 2011
December 22, 2011
Not since 2001, has BC's summer time net interprovincial migration been negative. For the third quarter in a row, more people moved out of BC, to other places in Canada, than moved in. Read ...

BC Population Change, 2nd Quarter, 2011
October 1, 2011
Preliminary population estimates suggest BC's economic bust continues. For the second quarter in a row, more people moved out of BC, to other places in Canada, than moved in. Read ...

SUCCESS AT LAST! Now, BC Stats Must Allow Verification of Population Numbers.
September 22, 2011.
After 13 years, the BC provincial government Official Statistical agency, BC Stats, under new management, has revised the population estimation methods paper. Why were the many changes to the population estimation model after 2001 not made public?
The substandard population estimate and forecasts methods (kicking out outliers to reduce error, adopting the change in telephone landlines as an indicator of population change etc.) influenced decision making regarding the opening and closing of public, and private, facilities including health and education facilities. Since 2001, nearly 200 public schools have been closed in BC.
During this "dark" period in BC's Statistics Agency, particularly after 2001, while Don McRae was Executive Director and Dave O'Neil was given a Director position over the Population Section (4 people) many changes were made to the way population numbers were created, including changing numbers outside of the models. Rather than inform taxpayers, clients, parents and guardians, and Statistics Canada of the changes, BC Statistics and the Ministry responsible provided incorrect methods and numbers.
Read ... with link to a letter to the new Provincial Statistician & Executive Director, BC Stats, Ministry of Labour, Citizens' Services and Open Government, Angelo Cocco.

Population Geography and Demography, Similarities and Differences
August 2011
Some Demographers still look at migration as a residual. Population Geographers help illuminate "in" and "out" migration, by age and sex, providing insight into changes in social and economic activity. Read ...

Open Data Education portal/website: Verification and Reliability
July 19, 2011
The government is opening up access to information, but is it reliable? Read ...

BC Population Change, 1st Quarter, 2011
June 22, 2011
Interprovincial migration negative once again. Not since 2003, have more people moved out of, than in to, BC. Read ...

InterProvincial Migration, Net, BC, 1971 to 2010, (July 1)
May 2011
Boom and Bust economic cycle comparison. Read ...

Quarterly BC Population Change for 2010: Net International Migration is negative in the last quarter of 2010
April 2011
With the decline in fertility and increase in deaths, fluctuations in net migration could mean the difference between population growth or population declines for BC. In the last quarter of 2010, net interprovincial migration continued to decline while net international migration was negative. Read ...

BC Population Change, Regional Districts, 2009 to 2010
February 2011
Here you will find the descriptions of the factors of population change, including natural changes, (births minus deaths), as well as net migration (interprovincial and intraprovincial) for BCs RDs for the year from July 1, 2009 to June 30, 2010. Read ...

BC school closures need independent reviews
January 2011
An examination of the data used to justify the recommendation to close the only high school in Qualicum Beach BC highlights the importance of communities / tax-payers having access to information. Here is a summary of the author's Information Session presentations. Read ...

Royal Society Call for Evidence, the strengths and weaknesses of different population modeling methodologies
October, 2010
People and the Planet: Call for evidence. Compare BC Stats and Statistics Canada's methods and models to estimate population to the regional level.
This is a unique opportunity to compare two Official Statistical Agencies providing population estimates at the regional level. Read ...

Parksville Census Agglomeration Population Projections, June, 2010
What will the age distribution look like in 2016? Read ...

Population Compendium, June, 2009
Why is distribution of the Annual Demographics Compendium being restricted? Read ...

2008 Population Change, BC, April 2009
Boom time comes to an end again. How long will the down turn last? Read ...

2008 Annual Demographic Estimates: Subprovincial Areas, not published, March 2009
Why hasn't Statistics Canada's released the Annual Demographic Estimates: Subprovincial Areas numbers? Take a look and you will see that there is no output posted in late January or early February 2009 for estimates dated 2003 to 2008.

Which Country Won the Most Medals per Population at the 2008 Summer Olympics? September 2008
This article examines the number of medals won by countries relative to the total population, and whether population density makes a difference. Read ...(html)... , (pdf)

BC�s Boom and Bust Economy, 1978 to 2006, August 2008
Does BC still have a boom and bust economy? How do we measure boom and busts? Understanding economic cycles, and what interrupts them, helps refine decision making. Read ...

Income and Housing: Urban/Rural Differences/Similarities, June 2008
Housing similarities between largest cities and distant North. Article in Beacon.Read ...

School Age Population Change in BC and Canada, 1971 to 2007, May 2008
The 2001 census results showed that in Canada, the number of children under 5 years of age declined by 221,545, between 1996 and 2001, almost a quarter of a million fewer children. The much anticipated 2006 census revealed that between 2001 and 2006 the population decline for those under 5 slowed considerably to just 5,745 fewer children. What does the population change look like for BC. Article in Beacon.Read ...

Immigration and Labour, April 2008
The Minister of Citizenship and Immigration can now admit whoever and how many ever people she/he wants to come into Canada. Read ...

Migration to the Nanaimo Regional District, March 2008
The 2006 Census mobility release provides an estimate of the number of people 5 years of age and older who moved between Census Divisions in Canada (Regional Districts in BC) between 2001 and 2006 (20% sample). The Nanaimo Regional District (RDN), on the east coast of Vancouver Island, is attractive to people in Canada for many reasons including it's relatively warm climate. Read ...
Map of Migration to the Nanaimo Regional District 2001 to 2006, March 2008.
Map of internal migration (within Canada) to the Nanaimo Regional District between 2001 and 2006 (20% sample). Read ...

Aboriginal Identity Reflects Maturing Society, February 2008
Acceptance and cooperation promoted by people of mixed European and Aboriginal ancestry helps make Canada a healthy society. Article in Beacon. Read ...

Global and Local Population Change, January 2008
How does Parksville/Qualicum reflect global population change? It leads Canada as an aging population...something the rest of Canada will go through over the next thirty years. Presentation to Parksville and Qualicum Beach Chambers of Commerce. Read ...

Migration, 2006 Census release, December 2007
Canada is a nation of movers. BC has more residential mobility then Canada as a whole, and the Parksville Census Agglomeration (Oceanside) has even more. The Parksville CA can be characterized as a high turn over community. What does that mean? Weaker social networks and greater reliance on public and privates services. Read ...

Central Vancouver Island, 2006 Census Age Distribution, August 2007
Add to the oscillation in age distribution, the boom and bust nature of a resource based economy, and variations in migration for people of different age groups, Central Vancouver Island is far from a stable community but rather can be best described as a dynamic, fluctuating, high turnover region. Read ...

Population Change in BC between 2001 and 2006, April 2007
The "Boom" time varies across BC, highlighting the end of population expansion and the beginning of contraction. Read ...

Migration between Core and Peripheral Areas, 2005
Fundamentals of booms and busts in economic activity (written while employed as the Population Analyst - BC provincial expert on migration). Read ...

Where do the Children Play, BC, Canada, 2005
Migration of females of reproductive age in BC (written while employed as the Population Analyst for the British Columbia Public Service - BC provincial expert on migration). Read ...(pdf)

Intraprovincial Migration, 2004
A closer look at migration between Core and Periphery (written while serving the public in the position of Population Aanlyst for the Provincial Government of British Columbia, ranking expert on migration) This link has changed as the BCStats website no longer provides this article. . Read ...(pdf)

Spheres of Influence, April 2000
Testing Alternative Indicators of Social and Economic Integration used to delineate Census Metropolitan Areas / Metropolitan Influence Zones (self-directed graduate studies project with the Geography Division of Statistics Canada). Read ...

Infant Mortality Rates, December 1999
Model to interpret variations in Infant Mortality. Defence spending versus education as well as Urban / rural interactions are used as indicators to juxtapose Will versus Reason as well as Structure in relation to Processes. An interaction effect is found where infant mortality rises rapidly where defence spending is high in counties with a high proportion of rural dwellers. These indicators explain ~80% of the variation in IMR (graduate level statistics course term project). (Read ...pdf)
Reference from Professor T. A. Nosenchuk, Ph.D. (teacher in the love of wisdom). (Read ...pdf)

Back to Top

Website content, code, and design by William Warren Munroe. Copyright 1999 - 2023 ©