According to a recent Statistics Canada report, employment in the construction sector was up 2.3 per cent, or 28,800 jobs in September when compared to the previous month. Over the 12-month period from September 2011 to September 2012, employment within the sector was down 0.8 per cent, or approximately 10,400 jobs.
Overall employment across the country was up for the second consecutive month, up 52,000 positions in September when compared to August.
The unemployment rate increased 0.1 per cent, to 7.4 per cent, due to more people participating in the labour market.
The largest employment gains occurred in the province of Ontario, up 31,000 jobs when compared to August; and up 0.7 per cent over the 12-month period. Manitoba also experienced significant gains, experiencing an increase of 6,600 jobs in September, dropping the unemployment rate to 5.0 per cent. Over the 12-month period, Manitoba’s employment was up 1.6 per cent or 10,000 jobs.
The retail and wholesale trade sector experienced the largest overall employment increase for the month of September (up 34,000 jobs) followed by the construction sector (up 29,000 jobs), and the culture and recreation sector (up 24,000 jobs).
To read the full report, click here.
Source: Statistics Canada.
