Released on August 8, 1997
Economic and Co-operative Development Minister Janice MacKinnon todayannounced the number of people working in Saskatchewan has reached an
all-time high. In July 493,800 people were working, compared to
476,900 in July 1996. This is the second month in a row that a record
has been set for the number of people working in Saskatchewan.
"Certainly the hard work by the people of Saskatchewan in restoring
fiscal stability has played a big part," MacKinnon said. "People feel
more confident and optimistic about the future. This is reflected in
our strengthening economy and increase in jobs.
"While the greater sense of security and confidence is a major
consideration, there are, of course, many factors which have led to
the increase in jobs."
The number of people working in July 1997 increased by 2000 over the
previous month, according to Statistics Canada.
Saskatchewan continues to have the lowest unemployment rate in the
country at 6.1 per cent in July, well below the national rate of
9.0 per cent. Saskatoon's unemployment rate of 6.5 per cent is the
lowest of any major city in Canada, Regina is the second lowest with
an unemployment rate of 7.1 per cent."We are extremely pleased with
these latest figures which show more people are working in Saskatchewan
than ever before," MacKinnon said. "The job numbers, however,
fluctuate from month to month and we cannot ensure we will always
lead the country and break our own records."
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For more information, contact:
Debbie Wilkie
Economic and Co-operative Development
Regina
Phone: (306)787-1691