Released on August 8, 2008
6,300 More People Working in Saskatchewan Than a Year Ago
Saskatchewan people continue to benefit from the province's economic momentum with strong employment, according to the latest Labour Force Survey released today by Statistics Canada.
There were 514,900 people working in Saskatchewan in July 2008 - an increase of 6,300 jobs from July 2007. Full-time employment increased by 12,200 jobs in the last year. Saskatchewan's unemployment also remains low at 4.8 per cent - third lowest in Canada.
"Saskatchewan people are benefiting from our strong economic momentum," Advanced Education, Employment and Labour Minister Rob Norris said. "The increasing number of skilled and talented individuals working in Saskatchewan drives our economy and makes Saskatchewan a leader in Canada and the New West."
The province also recorded an increase in the number of women employed in the province. There were 234,900 women employed in July 2008, up 4,900 (2.1 per cent) from July 2007.
Statistics Canada recently reported that workers in the province are also earning more. The average earnings of a payroll employee were $749.43 per week in May 2008. This is an increase of 5 per cent compared to May 2007 and well above the national average of 3.1 per cent. Just yesterday, the Conference Board of Canada forecast that Saskatchewan will lead the nation with 4.2 per cent economic growth this year.
"This is an exciting time for Saskatchewan people, who have access to career opportunities, an excellent quality of life, affordable living, a strong economy and higher wages," Norris said. "Our government will continue working hard to sustain the economic momentum and ensure all Saskatchewan people share in the benefits."
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For more information, contact:
Donna-Rae Crooks
Advanced Education, Employment and Labour
Regina
Phone: 306-787-3716