Since accession to the European Community in 1973 the CSO s work programme has been almost completely driven by the mandatory requirements of EU Directives and Regulations. In addition, it also requires that the production of Community statistics should be governed by the principles of impartiality, reliability, relevance, cost effectiveness, statistical confidentiality and transparency. These principles reflect internationally accepted best practice for the production of official statistics. In fulfilling its mandate the CSO applies the best statistical standards and methodology, and adheres to the highest professional standards of impartiality, integrity and independence. The methodology used for the compilation of statistics is published.
Details are available on request.
In almost all instances the Office now applies methodology that is harmonised at EU level for the production of Community statistics.