Released on January 27, 2009
Saskatchewan is beginning to feel the impact of the global economic situation as the number of people receiving Employment Insurance (EI) benefits rose slightly according to a release today by Statistics Canada.
"We said all along that we would not be immune from economic problems," Advanced Education, Employment and Labour Minister Rob Norris said. "Even though we are seeing an increase of 1.3 per cent, we are still doing better than any other jurisdiction in Canada. Saskatchewan wants an EI system that is flexible, and works for people. That is why Premier Brad Wall went to Ottawa recently, and delivered that message to the prime minister and the premiers."
Year-over-year (November 2007 to November 2008) (seasonally adjusted), Saskatchewan recorded the smallest increase in its number of EI beneficiaries among all provinces (1.3 per cent) compared to an increase of 11.7 per cent at the national level. Provinces that recorded the highest increases are: Ontario (28.2 per cent), British Columbia (24.6 per cent), Alberta (19.0 per cent) and Manitoba (15.8 per cent). All jurisdictions recorded an increase.
In November, 8,420 people living in Saskatchewan received regular Employment Insurance benefits, up 1.2 per cent from October, compared to an increase of 3.1 per cent at the national level. Saskatchewan recorded the third smallest increase after Newfoundland/Labrador (0.7 per cent) and New Brunswick (0.6 per cent). All provinces recorded an increase.
"Saskatchewan is unique in the strength of our work force," Norris said. "We want to maintain our position as a leader in labour market growth."
The number of people working in Saskatchewan increased by 14,800 from November 2007 to November 2008.
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For more information, contact:
Joy Johnson
Advanced Education, Employment and Labour
Regina
Phone: 306-787-1331
Email: joy.johnson@gov.sk.ca