WAGE-EARNERS CONTINUE TO SEE GREATER PURCHASING POWER

Saskatchewan workers continue to benefit from wage growth that significantly exceeds cost of living increases.

In August 2010, Saskatchewan workers saw, on average, a 6 per cent year-over-year increase in weekly earnings. That increase compares to a 0.8 per cent increase in the province's Consumer Price Index over the same time period. As a result, workers saw a 5.2 per cent jump in "real earnings."

"In yesterday's Speech from the Throne, we heard that Saskatchewan is on a road ‘marked by strong and continued growth...growth that marks the way to a better quality of life for Saskatchewan residents," Advanced Education, Employment and Immigration Minister Rob Norris said. "The numbers today offer a clear indication that we are seeing the benefits of continued growth in population, employment and earnings."

Saskatchewan's average weekly earnings of $852.99 are an all-time record for the province and the third highest in Canada after Alberta and Ontario.

Norris also said that prospects for Saskatchewan workers remain positive, noting that the province just saw a nation-leading 9.6 per cent increase in the Conference Board of Canada's September Help Wanted Index.

"With more than 7,200 jobs currently available on www.saskjobs.ca, Saskatchewan's economy has created opportunities in every corner of the province," Norris said.

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For more information, contact:

Christopher Jones-Bonk
Advanced Education, Employment and Immigration
Regina
Phone: 306-798-3106
Email: chris.jones-bonk@gov.sk.ca