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August 6, 1999
(Finance)


Provincial unemployment drops despite national increase

Labour force numbers for July released today by Statistics Canada show that the number of unemployed in Newfoundland and Labrador decreased by 1.6 per cent from June, while the number of unemployed for Canada increased by 1.6 per cent in the same period.

Statistics Canada's numbers also show a steady growth in Newfoundland and Labrador's labour market. Employment increased 7.3 per cent, or 16,100, over this time last year, the strongest growth of any province. In July, employment for the province reached 235,900, the highest level in a decade.

"We are very encouraged that the labour market has continued to improve. For example, in 27 of the last 31 months, year over year employment has increased," said Finance Minister Paul Dicks. "Increases in employment were widespread. Industries such as construction, fish processing and transportation reported gains. Significant increases in retail sales and tourism are reinforcing employment growth in the service sector."

Minister Dicks noted that the social assistance caseload for July declined by four per cent over this time last year.

"Participation in the labour force is on the rise as people are optimistic about the province's future," said Minister Dicks. "This optimism is reflective of the increase in employment and the decrease in social assistance and unemployment rates."

Media contact: Paula Dyke, Communications, (709) 729-0329.

1999 08 06               12:35 p.m.


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