Released on June 26, 2014
Saskatchewan’s strong economy continues to drive wage growth. According to Statistics Canada, average weekly earnings including overtime, were $975.87 in April 2014, the highest on record (seasonally adjusted) and the third highest among the provinces.“We reached a milestone in April – hitting an all-time high for wages,” Economy Minister Bill Boyd said. “One of the more important benefits of having a strong economy is the increase in wages for working people.”
On a year-over-year basis, wages were up 4.3 per cent ($40.66), the fourth highest percentage increase (tied with Alberta) among the provinces. On a national basis, wages were up 3.3 per cent over the same period.
Comparing April 2013 with April 2014, wages were up 23.7 per cent in arts, entertainment and recreation, and up 19.4 per cent in mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction. Fourteen out of 17 major industries posted increases in average weekly earnings.
“Wages in Saskatchewan are very competitive with other provinces,” Boyd said. “It is definitely an important factor when it comes to attracting skilled workers to the province.”
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For more information, contact:
Deb Young
Economy
Regina
Phone: 306-787-4765
Email: deb.young@gov.sk.ca