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More information on Common-law status
Censuses:
2006, 2001, 1996, 1991
Reported for:
Total population
Question number:
Direct variable: Question 5
Responses:
Yes; No
Remarks:
In 1986 and 1981, the common-law status was derived based on the relationship to Person 1 question. The common-law status was not measured in censuses prior to 1981.
Data for persons in common-law unions, classified by legal marital status, are available for 1991, 1996, 2001, and 2006. In 1986 and 1981, such persons were included among the 'married' population. Historical comparability of the marital status variable can be maintained with the 1991, 1996, 2001 and 2006 data by including persons in common-law unions with the 'married and common-law' population. See Marital status.
Since 2001, same-sex couples are included in this category.
