NLIS 4
April 7, 2000
(Human Resources and Employment)

Province�s population increases; employment on the rise

Propelled by strong economic growth, the province�s population grew for the first time in almost seven years.

Statistics Canada population data released today shows that Newfoundland and Labrador�s population as of January 1, 2000 was 541,559, an increase of approximately 600 people from October 1, 1999. The population growth was mainly the result of net in-migration.

"Seeing more people either staying or returning home is very exciting," said Julie Bettney, Minister of Human Resources and Employment. "These latest numbers reflect a renewed confidence in the province�s economy. Newfoundland and Labrador is increasingly being seen as a place of opportunity."

The province recorded net in-migration from all provinces except Nova Scotia and New Brunswick, reversing traditional migration patterns.

This good news is accompanied by strong employment growth according to the latest Labour Force Survey from Statistics Canada.

For the month of March employment increased by 5,400 or 2.9 per cent as compared to the same time period last year. On an industry basis, employment gains were concentrated in the service sector. Strongest increases were recorded in trade, transportation, finance and insurance industries. The unemployment rate was down by 0.4 percentage points as compared to March 1999.

On a seasonally adjusted basis, employment increased by 0.8 per cent from February to March 2000. The unemployment rate inched up 0.2 percentage points because of an increase in labour force participation.

"We are seeing the positive effects of a stronger economy," said Minister Bettney. "An increase in population along with employment growth reaffirms that Newfoundland and Labrador is on the right path."

Media contact: Marcia Porter, Communications, (709) 729-4062.

2000 04 07                                                 1:50 p.m.