Released on July 11, 2008
There are now more people working in Saskatchewan than ever before in the province's history, according to the latest Labour Force Survey released today by Statistics Canada.
Based on seasonally unadjusted numbers, there were 521,100 people working in Saskatchewan in June 2008.
This is an increase of 11,200 jobs from June 2007. Full-time employment increased by 14,700 jobs in the past year. Saskatchewan's unemployment also remains low at 3.4 per cent - third lowest in Canada.
"Our government is pleased to see more Saskatchewan residents engaged in our workforce and sharing in the province's economic momentum," Advanced Education, Employment and Labour Minister Rob Norris said. "We are especially pleased to see increased labour force participation by women."
There were 241,800 women employed in June 2008, up 8,200 (3.5 per cent) from June 2007.
Statistics Canada recently reported that people in the province are earning more. The average earnings of a payroll employee was $750.96 per week in April 2008. This is an increase of 5.4 per cent compared to April 2007 and well above the national average of 3.2 per cent.
"Saskatchewan's diverse and innovative labour force is allowing more people to make meaningful contributions to our province's diverse communities and expanding economy," Norris said. "We continue to focus on addressing Saskatchewan's labour market needs as we explore new opportunities for growth."
-30-
For more information, contact:
Donna-Rae Crooks
Advanced Education, Employment and Labour
Regina
Phone: 306-787-3716