Released on July 29, 2008
Saskatchewan people are experiencing the benefits of the increased wages and growing job opportunities of a strong economy.
"Saskatchewan's economic momentum continues to directly benefit the people of this province," Advanced Education, Employment and Labour Minister Rob Norris said. "With increased wages, growing employment and an excellent quality of life, Saskatchewan is a leader in Canada and the New West."
According to Statistics Canada the average earnings of a payroll employee in Saskatchewan for May 2008 are $749.43 per week. Saskatchewan recorded the second largest year-over-year increase among provinces with 5 per cent, well above the national average of 3.1 per cent.
Saskatchewan also recorded the largest percentage increase of 3.8 per cent in the number of occupied payroll jobs in May 2008 compared to a year ago.
Fewer people are also receiving Employment Insurance (EI) benefits. There were 7,090 people receiving regular EI benefits in May 2008. That's a decrease of 5.7 per cent from April 2008, and the second highest decrease in EI beneficiaries among all provinces. Saskatchewan also recorded the largest year-over-year decline in regular beneficiaries at 27.7 per cent.
"These are positive indicators that we are on the right track," Norris said. "We will work hard to sustain our economic momentum as we move forward."
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For more information, contact:
Donna-Rae Crooks
Advanced Education, Employment and Labour
Regina
Phone: 306-787-3716