TWELVE STRAIGHT MONTHS OF JOB GROWTH

Saskatchewan's impressive growth in jobs has now reached 12 straight months.

Figures released by Statistics Canada today show 477,200 people working in April (seasonally unadjusted), an increase of 12,900 over April 2002. This is the second highest figure ever for the month of April.

Industry and Resources Minister Eric Cline said the numbers reflect Saskatchewan's strong economic performance. "Our province is on a roll and the signs are good for even more growth," he said. "We are seeing improved moisture conditions this year along with other positive signs such as solid investment plans and strong growth in our mining and oil and gas sectors."

"Twelve straight months of year-over-year job growth attest to our improving business climate and to our more diversified economy."

Full-time employment continued to show strong gains, increasing by 12,000 jobs over April 2002. Non-agricultural employment was up 13,600 year over year, while agricultural employment was down slightly – 600 jobs – from last April.

Youth employment was up 5,400 year over year. Saskatchewan had the second-lowest youth unemployment rate in Canada in April, even though the youth labour force grew.

Cline said job numbers are only part of the story. Retail sales continue to be among the strongest in the country, as they were in 2002. Vehicle sales continue to rise. Year-to-date housing starts are up more than 50 per cent from 2002. Manufacturing shipments are up. Mineral production and value of mineral production are up.

Private sector forecasters are positive in their outlook for Saskatchewan. TD Bank predicts Saskatchewan will have the third highest economic growth in Canada in both 2003 and 2004. The Conference Board of Canada expects to see strong job growth in Saskatchewan in 2003 and 2004, and the second highest economic growth in Canada in 2004. The Royal Bank expects Saskatchewan to rank third in Canada in economic growth this year.

Saskatchewan had the third lowest unemployment rate in Canada at 6.1 per cent in April (seasonally unadjusted), down from 6.6 per cent the previous year and well below the national rate of 8.0 per cent. Regina had the second lowest unemployment rate at 5.3 per cent of major Canadian cities.

"We've worked very hard to create a positive climate for business in Saskatchewan, to build on what a great place this is to live, work and do business," Cline said. "Today's numbers help underline the positive story Saskatchewan has to tell – a province where the future really is wide open."

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For More Information, Contact:

Bob Ellis Industry and Resources Regina Phone: (306)787-8277