Larger pixel vs smaller pixel question

[oncewas]

I've been researching DSLR cameras and a couple of reviews talk about the size of the pixel. The review was comparing the Nikon D5000 vs the Canon t1i. The review stated that even though the Nikon was at 12.3 megapixels they are larger compared to the Canons. Thus creating less noise. Is this true? I've noticed that Canon keeps increasing the number of megapixels. Does size really matter?

[RichardTaylor]

Cameras with larger pixels generally have less noise.
There is an element of marketing in the Mega Pixel race, however more mega pixels do allow you to make extreemly large prints or to give you more flexibilty in cropping, however you will need high IQ lenses to make the most of the extra MP.
There is slight sign the P&S Mega Pixel race may be slowing down with the Cannon new G11 having 10MP in contrast with the G10's 14MP.