NB 173
Feb. 8, 2008
FREDERICTON (CNB) - The labour force in New Brunswick experienced a significant increase compared to a year ago as the province's unemployment rate stood at 8.2 per cent last month. Post-Secondary Education, Training and Labour Minister Ed Doherty reported today on the monthly labour force survey released by Statistics Canada.
"The labour force has grown significantly over the last few months, and once again this demonstrates the New Brunswickers have confidence in our economy and our strategies to create a self-sufficient province," Doherty said.
Figures released by Statistics Canada show that the New Brunswick labour force, which measures those working or actively seeking work, stood at a record 397,900 in January, up by 100 from the month of December and up by 10,000 from the same time last year. There were 365,100 New Brunswickers employed in January, up by 7,900 over the same time last year.
"We examine these figures on a year-over-year basis, so that we can tailor our strategies to positioning New Brunswick as a leader in economic development as detailed in the Charter for Change," the minister said. "We continue to work closely with industry stakeholders and community leaders to develop ways in which we can strengthen and diversify New Brunswick's workforce."
Employment growth in January was strongest in these three areas on a year-over-year basis: professional, scientific and technical services; public administration; and information, culture and recreation.
08/02/08
MEDIA CONTACT: Elaine Bell, Post-Secondary Education, Training and Labour, 506-453-2568.
08/02/08