Released on July 11, 2003
For the first time in Saskatchewan history, employment numbers have surpassed the half million mark.Statistics Canada figures released today show that there were 501,500 people working in Saskatchewan last month (seasonally unadjusted) compared to June 2002. That's an increase of 7,200 over last year's numbers, setting a new record for June and marking the 14th straight month of job growth in the province.
"Today's record-setting job numbers demonstrate an economy that is robust and flourishing," Industry and Resources Minister Eric Cline said. "It's proof positive that we are on a roll, providing more opportunities and full-time employment, which is key to ensuring a future that is wide open for Saskatchewan people."
The strength in full-time jobs over the last 14 months also continued in June 2003 with 5,100 more jobs than a year ago.
Additionally, Saskatchewan claimed the third lowest unemployment rate in Canada at 4.9 per cent in June (seasonally unadjusted), unchanged from June 2002 and well below the national rate of 7.2 per cent.
"Saskatchewan has a diversified and strong economy and today's job numbers support this fact," Cline said.
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For More Information, Contact:
| Janet Peters Industry and Resources Regina Phone: (306) 787-8277 |