ANOTHER RECORD MONTH FOR EMPLOYMENT IN SASKATCHEWAN

Highest Growth Rate in Three Years

Employment in Saskatchewan grew by 13,100 in April 2012, a 2.5 per cent increase in job growth compared to a year ago and the largest jump since June 2009. The employment growth rate in Saskatchewan was the third highest among provinces.

Monthly record highs were set for the month of April in the following categories:

• Labour force at 561,900
• Employment at 531,800
• Full-time employment at 435,800 (year-over-year increase of 17,500)

Saskatchewan's unemployment rate remained the lowest in the country in April, tied with Alberta at 4.9 per cent and well below the national unemployment rate of 7.3 per cent.

"The Saskatchewan story is one of strong employment growth and continuing bright economic prospects," Advanced Education, Employment and Immigration Minister Rob Norris said. "Business optimism remains strong and this is great news for those building a career in our province."

Other highlights in the Statistics Canada report include:

• In April, Regina's unemployment rate was 3.8 per cent, the lowest among major Canadian cities while Saskatoon's unemployment rate was 5.8 per cent, the ninth lowest.
• Solid year-over-year employment gains were recorded in the province's two major cities - jobs up 5,700 (4.8 per cent) in Regina and up 5,100 (3.6 per cent) in Saskatoon.
• Aboriginal employment increased by 3,200 (8.9 per cent) for 11 consecutive months of year-over-year gains.
• Youth employment increased by 4,900 (6.4 per cent) year over year.

Nearly 12,000 job vacancies are posted today on the SaskJobs.ca website.

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For more information, contact:

Bill Stovin
Advanced Education, Employment and Immigration
Regina
Phone: 306-787-0926