Finance
July 2, 2010

Province's Population Continues to Climb with Seventh Straight Quarter of Net In-Migration

Newfoundland and Labrador's population continues to rise, according to the latest estimates from Statistics Canada released earlier this week.

From January 1 to April 1 of this year, the province's population went up by 96 people to stand at 510,901. The increase was due largely to inter-provincial migration, and, while this is a modest change, it marks the fourth quarter in a row that Newfoundland and Labrador has posted population growth. It is also the seventh consecutive quarter in which the province experienced positive net migration, resulting in a gain of 5,059 people through net in-migration over that period.

"For seven successive quarters now, there has been a net inflow of people to the province," said the Honourable Tom Marshall, Minister of Finance and President of Treasury Board. "This sustained gain is encouraging, and an indication that more people recognize and have confidence in the opportunities offered in Newfoundland and Labrador."

Minister Marshall noted that the Provincial Government's strategic investments and policies over the past number of years are contributing to this confidence.

The Williams Government is investing substantially in critical programs and services, including healthcare, education, skills development, attracting and retaining youth, and areas that stimulate economic activity.

Under Budget 2010: The Right Investments — For Our Children and Our Future, an additional $1 billion is being invested in infrastructure projects this year, with total infrastructure spending expected to grow to more than $5 billion over the next several years. Budget 2010 also announced further tax reductions that put approximately $48.5 million back into the pockets of residents and ensure this province maintains the lowest personal taxes in Atlantic Canada. Approximately $1.2 billion in cumulative tax relief measures have been implemented since 2007.

Minister Marshall also pointed to projected growth in incomes and employment as positive signs that add to the province's attractiveness.

"We are making the right investments to secure a bright future in Newfoundland and Labrador," said Minister Marshall. "As our economy keeps gathering momentum, we look forward to more people choosing Newfoundland and Labrador to live, work and raise a family."

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Media contact:

Mark King
Director of Communications
Department of Business
709-729-7628, 699-3454
markking@gov.nl.ca