Beverly Harris Collaboration in Statistics: The Case of St. Kitts and Nevis NSDS Workshop Anguilla November 9 th

OUTLINE Introduction Role and functions of the Department Challenges Benefits of Collaboration Recommendations 2

Introduction “Coordination among statistical agencies within countries is essential to achieve consistency and efficiency in the statistical system.” Source: Fundamental Principles of Official Statistics 3

Role of Statistics Department The St. Kitts and Nevis Department of Statistics is charged with the responsibility of: Collecting, compiling, analyzing, abstracting and publishing statistical information. Collaborating with government departments and local authorities in the collection, computation and publication of statistical records of administration ( admin records) Taking any censuses in the country. Generally to organize a coordinated scheme of statistics and intelligence pertaining to the country Underpinning all of the above is the assurance of confidentiality secured by ordinance. 4

Mission To produce timely, reliable and accurate data relating to the population, resources, economy, society and culture. 5

VISION To be a key provider of good quality information and in so doing raise the level of consciousness of the people of the Federation in matters relating to Statistics. 6

Collaboration with all Players is KEY 7

BENEFITS OF COLLABORATION In keeping with the principle 8 of official statistics the department of statistics seeks collaboration not only at the inter-ministerial level but at the local, regional and international levels. We have collaborated with a number of agencies over the years, creating synergies within and beyond, particularly in relation to the sharing and comparing of information. 8

“ Bilateral and multilateral cooperation in statistics contribute to the improvement of systems of official statistics in all countries.” Source: Fundamental Principles of Official Statistics 9

Collaboration Ensures: Proper application of methods in keeping with international standards Better use of information Efficient use of administrative reports An integration of information services Better co-ordination with stakeholders Rationalization of existing resources Institutional strengthening 10

BENEFITS ALSO ENSURES Implementation of a dissemination scheme More Efficient use of ICT A Shared system of education and training Collaboration could also be the vehicle for creating a dissemination plan that is holistic in nature and encompasses all suppliers and users. 11

CHALLENGES Statistical concepts and standards often not understood or adhered to In some instances there is a lack of statistical awareness and capability. Timeliness and completeness of data. The existence of incomparable and inconsistent data sets. 12

CHALLENGES Absence of an auditing mechanism to verify reliability and accuracy of official statistics Decentralized approach creates fragmentation and bottlenecks Inaccuracy and incompatibility of collected data Inadequate technology Low response rate to some Surveys. 13

RECOMMENDATIONS Establishment of an advisory committee or technical working group Improve and expand where possible the department’s cooperation among ministries, departments, agencies etc in terms of data sharing Improve coordination among donor agencies Ongoing and regular communication with agencies that provide data 14

RECOMMENDATONS Continued engagement with the donor agencies re standardization of concepts, classifications, methodologies and definitions and training opportunities. 15

‘The use by statistical agencies in each country of international concepts, classifications and methods promote the consistency and efficiency of statistical systems at all official levels.” Source: Fundamental Principles of Official Statistics 16

Harmonize across the service the use of codes and classifications, processes etc. used in collecting data Mandatory reporting from line ministries Establishment of a core set of data required from each department at a specified date. surveys. Improve the relationship with private sector to enhance timely reporting 17

RECOMMENDATIONS Provide training in statistics to persons from line ministries. Ongoing discussions with the suppliers of information. To maintain the issue of confidentiality (discussion, forums) There must be institutional reform within all data producing agencies. Finally there is need to take the lead role with regard to data in line ministries and agencies. 18

FINALLY “It is the long history of mankind those who learned to collaborate and improved most effectively, have prevailed.” Charles Darwin 19

20