18 May 2015

The release of the Quarterly Labour Force Survey (QLFS) publication for the first quarter of 2015 will be postponed to the 26th of May 2015. The release is postponed determine the impact of the implementation of a new master sample, based on the 2011 Census, on the QLFS series. The first quarter 2015 QLFS data will be based on a new sampling frame – the 2013 Master Sample.

Since 2008, Statistics South Africa (Stats SA) has used a master sample of 3 080 primary sampling units (PSUs) based on the 2001 population census as the sampling frame for the QLFS. Following the Census 2011, Stats SA initiated a process of implementing a new master sample, referred to as the 2013 Master Sample. The new master sample reflects a number of differences relating to its design.

The process of updating the Master Sample is a regular occurrence which follows from a population Census as new information becomes available based on the households which were enumerated during the Census. The new Master Sample through its improved design aims to build on the quality of labour market data produced by Stats SA.

Ends

Issued by Statistics South Africa

For technical enquiries contact

Durieux Monet

Acting Executive Manager Labour Statistics

Mobile:  082 528 3165

MonetD@statssa.gov.za