QOLRS — FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQS)
1. How is quality of life defined and why is it important?
A. The QOLRS recognizes that quality of life is influenced by a variety of factors, including the development of a vibrant local economy, the availability of affordable, appropriate housing, dependable community infrastructure, and reliable access to clean air and drinking water. All of these issues touch at the heart of the day-to-day lives of Canadians.
2. What is the Quality of Life Reporting System (QOLRS)?
A. Led by the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM), the Quality of Life Reporting System (QOLRS) measures, monitors and reports on social, economic and environmental trends in Canada´s largest cities and communities. The QOLRS is a member-based initiative. Starting with 16 communities in 1996, the QOLRS has grown to 24 communities in seven provinces. QOLRS reports and statistics correspond to the municipal boundaries of member communities.
3. Can anyone access QOLRS data?
A. All QOLRS theme reports, issue briefings and annexes are available to the public. Unfortunately, due to licensing agreements, the raw data used to produce the reports is not publicly available.
4. Who can become a QOLRS member and how?
A. QOLRS membership consists of self-identified large urban centres, many of the suburban communities surrounding them, as well as regional centres. QOLRS members generally have populations of at least 200,000 people. For further information on becoming a member, please contact Joshua Bates, Policy Advisor, at 613-907-6234 or jbates@fcm.ca
5. How is QOLRS data used and valued?
A. Data is used to produce thematic reports and issue briefings, which provide an important advocacy tool for the municipal sector, and also serve as a planning tool for municipalities, allowing them to better target policies and resources aimed at improving quality of life in their respective communities.
The QOLRS offers a credible source for municipal data, and the analysis provided in each report is relied upon by community organizations, research institutes, journalists and other orders of government.
For further information or to become a member, contact:
Adam Thompson
Policy Analyst
Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM)
Tel: (613) 907-6247
Email: [athompson@fcm.ca]