JOB NUMBERS TOP HALF-MILLION MARK AGAIN

Released on August 8, 2003

Saskatchewan's employment numbers are at historic highs, topping the half-million mark for the second month in a row.

Figures released today by Statistics Canada showed 500,300 people working in Saskatchewan in July (seasonally unadjusted), an increase of 6,100 over July 2002. The figure is the highest ever for the month of July and marks the 15th straight month of job growth in the province.

"Continued strength in job creation reflects Saskatchewan's overall solid economic performance," Industry and Resources Minister Eric Cline said. "Despite some ongoing challenges in agriculture, our economy has a momentum that is translating into new opportunities for Saskatchewan people."

Sectors showing increased job numbers in July included transportation, services, resources and public administration.

Non-agricultural employment increased 12,100 in July compared to the previous year while agricultural employment decreased by 5,800, likely reflecting the impact of BSE on the livestock industry and the deterioration in the crop outlook over summer.

Cline noted non-agricultural employment has increased by more than 24,000 since July 1999. "There is diversity within our economy that wasn't there years ago. This is reflected in the Statistics Canada figures and in the conclusions of other private analysts."

June survey results from Manpower Inc. show Saskatchewan employers remain optimistic. Employers were almost unanimous in their outlook, with 94 per cent of those surveyed in Regina and 100 per cent in Saskatoon expecting staffing levels to either increase or remain the same over the next quarter.

The August forecast from the Conference Board of Canada has Saskatchewan leading the country in economic growth both this year and in 2004. The Bank of Montreal, Scotiabank, and Global Insight also predict Saskatchewan will have the strongest economic growth in Canada in 2003.

Cline said year-do-date housing starts are up 47 per cent over last year, and Saskatchewan continues to lead the country in growth in retail sales. "More people are working, they have disposable income to spend, they're spending it here, and they're putting down roots right here at home. These are all positive signals of our wide-open future."

At 5.7 per cent (seasonally unadjusted), Saskatchewan's July unemployment rate was the third lowest in Canada and well below the national rate of 7.9 per cent.

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For More Information, Contact:

Bob Ellis Industry and Resources Regina Phone: (306) 787-8277