SASKATCHEWAN WEEKLY EARNINGS THIRD HIGHEST IN COUNTRY

Saskatchewan's average weekly earnings for February 2009 increased by 3.5 per cent over February 2008, according to a report released today by Stats Canada. The province experienced the third largest growth in Canada.

In February, Saskatchewan's average weekly earnings were $803.63, up 0.8 per cent from January 2009, the second highest in western Canada and the third highest among all provinces, after Alberta ($973.61) and Ontario ($845.19).

"Our average earnings are another indicator of our strong and steady economy," Advanced Education, Employment and Labour Minister Rob Norris said. "In addition, our people are keeping more of what they earn, thanks to significant income tax cuts by our government."

The province also recorded the largest percentage increase in Canada of 1.9 per cent in the number of occupied payroll jobs in February 2009 compared to a year ago, well above the national average of -1.2 per cent.

Norris also said that Rapid Response Teams and the Saskjobs.ca website are assisting those employees impacted by layoffs.

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For more information, contact:

Joy Johnson
Advanced Education, Employment and Labour
Regina
Phone: 306-787-1331
Email: joy.johnson@gov.sk.ca