Released on August 28, 2009
Saskatchewan's payroll increases continue to outpace the national average, according to a new report released today by Statistics Canada. Average weekly earnings in Saskatchewan increased by 2.6 per cent (seasonally adjusted) in June 2009 compared to June 2008, well above the national average of 1.8 per cent.
Average weekly earnings in Saskatchewan are now $803.77.
"While we have not escaped the effects of the global recession, these statistics illustrate our province's relative strength in this difficult time," Advanced Education, Employment and Labour Minister Rob Norris said. "Despite the downturn, more Saskatchewan people are working, and, on average, they are earning more money."
Saskatchewan's average weekly earnings were the second highest in western Canada, ahead of Manitoba ($765.26) and British Columbia ($798.75). Among all provinces, Saskatchewan's average weekly earnings occupied the fourth highest position after Alberta ($962.77), Ontario ($843.43) and Newfoundland and Labrador ($804.81).
In addition to higher average earnings, Saskatchewan recorded the second largest percentage increase (next to Prince Edward Island) of 1.2 per cent in the number of occupied payroll jobs in June 2009 compared to a year ago, well above the national average of -2.2 per cent.
"Saskatchewan continues to be the best place in Canada to weather the economic storm," Norris said. "With more than 6,000 vacancies on saskjobs.ca, opportunities are still available."
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For more information, contact:
Christopher Jones-Bonk
AEEL
Regina
Phone: 798-3106