December 18, 1998
(Executive Council)

Economic growth slowing pace of population decline

Premier Brian Tobin said today he is pleased to see a slowdown in the pace of population decline in the third quarter of 1998.

Statistics indicate that from July to September 1998 the province recorded the lowest number of people leaving the province in five years, 1,869, as compared to 3,677 in 1997.

"Over the last 20 years, July to September has been the period of highest out-migration," said the premier. "Today's figure reflects the strong growth in employment the province experienced during the late spring and early summer. This, combined with slowing economic growth in other areas of the country caused by the Asian crisis, has led to fewer Newfoundlanders and Labradorians leaving the province."

Media contact: Heidi Bonnell, (709) 729-3564.

1998 12 18                         5:20 p.m.