Released on June 23, 2009
Saskatchewan's Population Grows By More Than 15,000 in Past Year to More Than 1,027,000
Even during a global economic recession, Saskatchewan's population continues to grow according to the latest population figures released today by Statistics Canada.
Saskatchewan grew by 3,282 in the first quarter of 2009, bringing the population up to 1,027,092 - its highest level since July 1, 1988. Saskatchewan's population has grown by 15,048 over the past year (April 1, 2008 to April 1, 2009).
Premier Brad Wall said the growing population numbers are one more sign of the strength and resilience of the Saskatchewan economy.
"People are still looking to Saskatchewan for opportunity," Wall said. "We lead the nation in employment growth, and that means more people staying in Saskatchewan and more people moving to Saskatchewan to work, live and raise their families.
"As I've said before, Saskatchewan is a great place to make a living, and an even better place to make a life."
Saskatchewan continues to gain new residents through net in-migration (number of people moving in minus number of people leaving) from other provinces. Ontario was the primary source of new people moving to Saskatchewan, with net migration from Ontario to Saskatchewan of 889 people.
Overall, Saskatchewan's net in-migration in the first quarter of 2009 was the second-highest of any province, behind only Alberta.
"Our government remains committed to a growth agenda and creating new opportunities for people from both Saskatchewan and elsewhere," Wall said.
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For more information, contact:
Kathy Young
Executive Council
Regina
Phone: 306-787-0425
Email: kathy.young@gov.sk.ca
Cell: 306-527-8927