NON-RESIDENTIAL BUILDING PERMITS UP MORE THAN 100 PER CENT FROM LAST YEAR

Saskatchewan non-residential building permits had the highest growth in the country according to new figures released today by Statistics Canada. Non-residential construction was up 118.0 per cent in November 2011 over November 2010, the largest increase among the provinces.

"There has been steady growth in building permits for several months now creating construction jobs and opportunities for Saskatchewan businesses," Enterprise Minister Jeremy Harrison said. "With a growing economy and a growing province, we expect to see both residential and non-residential construction continue to see growth."

Saskatchewan had the second-highest percentage increase of building permits in Canada when compared to last November, up 45.2 per cent (seasonally adjusted). Residential construction was up by 10.3 per cent over the same period.

"There are a number of large projects going on across the province right now, and that is a major factor in moving our economy forward," Harrison said. "This trend will likely continue in 2012 as potash expansions, the Global Transportation Hub and other major projects continue to accelerate."

-30-

For more information, contact:

Deb Young
Enterprise Saskatchewan
Regina
Phone: 306-787-6315
Email: deb.young@enterprisesask.ca