The Department of Statistics has mailed its Annual Economic Activity Survey to more than one-third of the 5,000 business and organisations that operate on the Island.

The survey of some 1,500 business and organisations across 15 industrial groups is conducted under the Statistics Act 2002 which guarantees that all information provided by survey recipients will be kept confidential.

The goal of the survey, which will take place over the next two months, is to collect key economic information from a broad range of businesses and organisations in both the private and public sectors that buy or sell goods and services.

Chief statistician Valerie Robinson-James noted in a press release that no matter how small, no matter whether they be churches or hotels or schools, all entities contribute to the economic growth of the economy.

She said: ?The information collected will help to measure the growth of the economy accurately and develop a range of statistics used in comparing the economic performance of industry. It is for this reason that reliable and relevant economic data will enhance the quality of decision making both in the public and private sectors.?

Those selected to participate in the survey may attend ?Lunch and learn? sessions at the department on April 22 and 29 from 12-2 p.m. The sessions are designed to help data providers understand the Department?s role in collecting and disseminating survey data. They will also have opportunity to ask questions about the EAS, how to complete the survey questionnaires and give feedback about the survey. Technical Support officers will also be available throughout the survey months to provide assistance to participants.