ANOTHER DROP IN THE NUMBER OF EI RECIPIENTS

The number of Saskatchewan people receiving Employment Insurance dropped significantly in July, decreasing by 2,940 (-23.1 per cent) compared to the same month last year (seasonally adjusted).

This is the 16th consecutive month of year-over-year decreases.

"This latest drop in the number of EI recipients is yet another positive indication of Saskatchewan's strong and steady economy," Advanced Education, Employment and Immigration Minister Rob Norris said. "With the lowest unemployment rate in the country, a rising population and the tightest labour market in Canada, there is good reason to be optimistic about the province's future."

When expressed as a percentage of the total labour force population, Saskatchewan has the second fewest number of people receiving EI benefits in Canada at 1.2 per cent (tied with Manitoba). Alberta is the lowest at 1.1 per cent.

"While we continue to see improvement, we are focusing on doing what we can to keep the Employment Insurance numbers moving in the right direction," Norris said. "Our 19 Can-Sask Career and Employment Services offices are ready to provide assistance in matching job seekers with opportunities."

Norris added that with more than 10,000 jobs available today on www.saskjobs.ca, opportunities are available right now across the province.

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For more information, contact:

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