SASKATCHEWAN’S POPULATION TOPS 1,050,000 FOR THE FIRST TIME

Most Sustained Growth in 80 Years

Saskatchewan's population has hit an all-time high of 1,052,050 as of January 1, 2011 according to the latest figures released today by Statistics Canada.

"Our strong economy and great quality of life are attracting more and more people to Saskatchewan," Premier Brad Wall said. "More people are choosing to stay in Saskatchewan and more people from outside our borders are discovering the Saskatchewan advantage."

Saskatchewan grew by 15,078 people or 1.45 per cent in 2010. That was the fastest growth rate of any western province and the second highest growth rate of any province, just 0.01 per cent behind Prince Edward Island's rate of 1.46 per cent.

Saskatchewan had net inter-provincial migration of 2,689 people or 0.26 per cent in 2010 - the highest rate of any province. Saskatchewan experienced a natural increase (births minus deaths) of 4,890 and net international migration of 7,499 in 2010.

Wall said strong population growth has become the "new normal" in the new Saskatchewan - noting that Saskatchewan has grown by nearly 45,000 people in the past three years (January 1, 2008 to January 1, 2011).

"That's the highest population growth in any three-year period since 1928 to 1931 - 80 years ago," Wall said. "Saskatchewan is moving forward and our government is working hard to make sure we keep moving forward."

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For more information, contact:

Kathy Young
Executive Council
Regina
Phone: 306-787-0425
Email: kathy.young@gov.sk.ca