In January, the unemployment rate for the Stratford-Bruce Peninsula Economic Region increased to 6.3%. At the same time, the provincial unemployment rate increased to 9%, both unadjusted for seasonality.

Overall net employment in the region decreased by 3,800, with full-time losses (-4,900) and part-time gains (1,100). This full-time employment change was the biggest during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The number of Goods-producing sector employees decreased by net 3,900. The main driving force came from significant losses in Construction (-2,900) and Manufacturing (-2,400).

Employment in the Services-producing sector, however, increased by net 200. The greatest gains were in Transportation and warehousing (600) and Information, culture and recreation (600) while the most losses came from Other services (except public administration; -700) and Public administration (-700). The gains in other sectors offset the losses, which resulted in net gains of 200.

“Increased employment in the service sector over the last few months could indicate economic recovery for some industries. We hope this trend will continue in 2021,” says Gemma Mendez-Smith, Executive Director of the Four County Labour Market Planning Board. “Our local unemployment rate, both for December and for 2020 overall, continues to hold the lowest rate in the province.”

Current job postings for the Bruce, Grey, Huron, Perth region can be found at: www.connect2JOBS.ca. This is updated regularly so visit often to see the job opportunities.

source: media release, Four County Labour Market Planning Board