Cam Broten MLA

2 December 2011

Saskatchewan lost 200 jobs over the last year while Manitoba added 1,800 jobs and Alberta added 98,400 jobs, according to a report released by Statistics Canada today.

"It's discouraging to see Saskatchewan losing jobs while our neighbouring provinces are experiencing significant increases in employment," NDP Employment Critic Cam Broten said. "As we head into the holiday season, it's concerning that 25,800 Saskatchewan people are unemployed and looking for work."

The most significant loss in employment occurred in the private sector, which has shed a total of 2,900 jobs. The sectors that lost the most jobs include: Manufacturing (-5,600); Information, culture and recreation (-2,800); Accommodation and food services (-1,800); Agriculture (-1,500); Educational services (-1,200); Transportation and warehousing (-1,000); and Forestry, fishing, mining and oil & gas (-100).

Regions that lost the most jobs included Swift Current-Moose Jaw (-1,900) and Prince Albert & Northern (-2,600).

"We're losing a substantial number of jobs in key sectors and regions, while employment is increasing significantly in other provinces. That ought to be a cause of concern for the provincial government," Broten said. "Let's not forget that the Sask Party government scrapped important job training and employment development programs. As they prepare to lay out their agenda in the Throne Speech next week, we urge them to recognize the shortsighted nature of those cuts and reverse them."