Released on November 25, 2008
Two reports released by Statistics Canada today show that Saskatchewan people continue to benefit from the strong economy as fewer people collect unemployment benefits and retail sales set an all-time record for the month of September.
"More Saskatchewan residents are enjoying the benefits of our growing economy," Enterprise and Innovation Minister Lyle Stewart said. "There are more job opportunities, and Saskatchewan's confidence levels in the economy are extremely high when compared to other Canadian jurisdictions."
There were 8,300 people receiving EI benefits in September 2008, a drop of 8.5 per cent from the same month one year ago. This is the largest drop in EI beneficiaries of all provinces. Nationally, the number of people receiving EI increased 3.9 per cent during the same period.
Retail sales for September 2008 were up 10.4 per cent over last year on a seasonally unadjusted basis, the second highest increase in Canada. Nationally, retail sales increased by 5.6 per cent over the same period.
"While much of Canada is experiencing an economic downturn, there is still a sense of optimism and excitement for the economic future of Saskatchewan," Stewart said. "We will continue to build a stronger province and a better life for people who live here."
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For more information, contact:
Deb Young
Enterprise Saskatchewan
Regina
Phone: (306) 798-0503
Email: Deb.Young@gov.sk.ca