FIGURES reveal 97 per cent of households in Northern Ireland completed their 2021 Census, which "surpasses" the last survey carried out a decade ago.
The 2011 Census was completed by 94 per cent of households.
But Census director Dr David Marshall urged the remaining three per cent of households to complete and return the latest questionnaire.
Everyone is required by law to complete the Census with those who fail to do so risking a potential £1,000 fine.
"We have had a fantastic response to the 2021 Census with 97 per cent of households returning their questionnaire," said Dr Marshall.
"This surpasses the last Census in 2011 and will help us deliver an accurate picture of the population.
"We urge anyone who hasn’t yet done so to complete and return a paper Census form now and play their part in helping shape public services for the next decade.
"We have issued reminder letters and paper questionnaires to households which have not returned their Census.
"Field staff are still on the ground making sure the details collected in the census are accurate.
"Help shape the future of your area by helping government departments, businesses, charities and other organisations understand what local areas need now and what they are likely to need in the future."
The online portal, which most people used to complete their Census, is now closed. However, there is still time to complete a paper form.
For more information visit census.gov.uk/ni or call the contact centre on 0800 328 2021.
