WEEKLY EARNINGS SET ANOTHER RECORD

Average weekly earnings in Saskatchewan have reached another all-time high.

In September 2009, Saskatchewan workers earned an average of $814.56 per week. This is an increase of 2.3 per cent over the same month last year, above the national average of 1.9 per cent. Overall, Saskatchewan's weekly earnings rank third in Canada after Alberta ($959.46) and Ontario ($856.23).

"Without question, we've seen the effects of the global economic slowdown here at home," Advanced Education, Employment and Labour Minister Rob Norris said. "Even so, with the lowest unemployment rate and our workers earning more on average than ever before, Saskatchewan is in a strong position to lead the country out of the storm."

On a month over month basis, Saskatchewan's average weekly earnings increased 1.3 per cent.

Saskatchewan recorded a percentage increase of 0.4 per cent in the number of occupied payroll jobs in September 2009 compared to a year ago, well above the national average of -2.9 per cent. All other provinces except Prince Edward Island (5.1 per cent) recorded decreases.

"While the news on earnings is good, we are also aware of those workers and employers who have been affected by the recession," Norris said. "Our Can-Sask Career and Employment Service Centres stand ready to provide a range of services depending upon need, to assist job seekers impacted by current economic circumstances."

Norris also noted that opportunities are still available in Saskatchewan.

"Right now, there are more than 5,700 jobs available on saskjobs.ca, and since April 1, we've seen more than 55,000 jobs posted to the site," Norris said.

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For more information, contact:

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