Released on December 6, 2011
Construction continues to rise at a rapid pace according to the October building permit statistics released today by Statistics Canada.
Saskatchewan's building permits are up by 22.4 per cent in October 2011 over October 2010, ten times higher than the national average of 2.2 per cent and the highest increase among the provinces.
"Our economy is growing at a rate that is the envy of many other jurisdictions due to strong expansion in the resource sector and a growing population," Enterprise Minister Jeremy Harrison said. "Saskatchewan is showing the rest of the world that we have an advantage in our province that maximizes both personal and business opportunities, while we continue steady, reliable fiscal management."
On a monthly basis, building permits were up 24.5 per cent October 2011 over September 2011, the third-highest best in the nation and more than double the 11.9 per cent increase recorded nationally.
"Our major cities are seeing record numbers for building permits, and with about $50 billion of construction expected in the mining industry over the next 20 years, there will continue to be steady growth over the long term," Harrison said. "We will continue to work on attracting the skilled trades people and the businesses that are vital to make sure industrial and residential construction projects continue to proceed across Saskatchewan."
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For more information, contact:
Deb Young
Enterprise Saskatchewan
Regina
Phone: 306-787-6315
Email: deb.young@enterprisesask.ca