Released on December 1, 2000
Saskatchewan's job market performed well in November, with increases in jobs inmost sectors and the lowest unemployment rate in the nation.
Figures released today by Statistics Canada show 481,100 people were working in
Saskatchewan in November 2000, up 1,400 over November 1999. Saskatchewan's
economy created an average of 8,600 more full-time jobs from January to
November, compared to the same period in 1999.
The province's unemployment rate of 4.5 per cent in November was considerably
lower than the national rate of 6.5 per cent.
"The performance of our economy is a testament to the diversification efforts
of our businesses and our people," Economic and Co-operative Development
Minister Janice MacKinnon said. "We're also building on our solid growth in
the 1990's."
Saskatchewan led Canada in economic growth per person over the last decade,
leading to the Globe and Mail naming Saskatchewan the 'Star of the Nineties'."
Economic forecasts from major financial institutions have been revised upwards
for the province, with the Conference Board of Canada raising its rate of
predicted GDP growth to 3.6 per cent for the year. Manpower Temporary Services
is reporting 94 per cent of Regina employers and 80 per cent of Saskatoon
employers are expecting to maintain or increase jobs in the first quarter of
2001.
"While our job growth has slowed somewhat in recent months, the overall trend
continues to be very positive," MacKinnon said. "Our businesses continue to
create more opportunities and jobs, particularly full-time jobs, for
Saskatchewan people and communities."
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For more information, contact:
Bob Ellis
Economic and Co-operative Development
Regina
Phone (306) 787-1691
Note to Editors: These are seasonally unadjusted figures as supplied by
Statistics Canada. Adjusted and unadjusted figures can be found on Statistics
Canada's website: www.statscan.ca