Released on February 26, 2013
Saskatchewan workers had a 5.0 per cent increase ($44.96) in seasonally-adjusted average weekly earnings in 2012, the highest percentage increase in Canada. Saskatchewan's average weekly earnings were $936.00, above the national average of $908.35.
“Higher wages for Saskatchewan working people is a true measure of our economic progress,” Economy Minister Bill Boyd said. “With increased salaries in a wide range of jobs, our province is in a great position to be a destination of choice for job seekers in Canada and across the globe.”
According to Statistics Canada’s report released today, the main contributor to the improvement in wages came from increases in health care, social assistance, accommodation and food services and professional, scientific and technical services. Nationally, wages were only up 2.8 per cent year-over-year.
On a monthly basis, average earnings were up by 1.2 per cent in December 2012 over November 2012, tied with Alberta for the highest increase in the nation.
Saskatchewan had the lowest unemployment rate in the country in January 2013 at 4.0 per cent (seasonally adjusted) which was the lowest since November 2008.
“More money in the pockets of Saskatchewan people ultimately means the quality of life improves,” Boyd said. “These increases are significant, and we are confident that wages will continue to rise in 2013.”
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For more information, contact:
Deb Young
Economy
Regina
Phone: 306-787-4765
Email: deb.young@gov.sk.ca