Construction jobs dry up in June as industry posts another decline in employment
By On-Site Staff
Construction Labour
Construction employment figures have been negative five out of six months this year
OTTAWA—Aside from a big April gain, there’s been little to brag about in the Canadian construction industry’s labour market this year. And the negative news shows few signs of abating.
Statistics Canada released its June Labour Force survey July 5, reporting a loss of about 7,400 construction jobs across the country. The losses translate to about 0.5 per cent of industry jobs and mark the fifth time in six months employment has dipped in 2019.
Despite the less than stellar showing, employment figures for construction remain positive, though nearly flat, year-over-year. 0.4 per cent more workers strapped on their steel toes last month compared to June 2018.
The Canadian economy as a whole also shed jobs in June, though a statistically insignificant number. Unemployment, meanwhile, rose 0.1 per cent to reach 5.5 per cent. Year-over-year, Statistics Canada says the Canadian economy has added more than 400,000 jobs — enough for a 2.3 per cent gain.
