There's some good news when it comes to employment locally, provincially and nationally with slight rises continuing month-to-month.
The latest Labour Force Survey for November released by Statistics Canada today (Dec. 4) shows Canada, B.C. and Prince George are seeing more people gain work.
Prince George's November unemployment rate dropped from 9.5 per cent in October to to 8.1 per cent last month.
B.C. also saw a decrease in its unemployment rate coming in at 7.1 per cent last month compared to an eight per cent rate in October.
"From the outset of this pandemic, our government understood that the key to building a foundation of a strong recovery is a strong public health response focused on keeping people safe," newly appointed Minister of Jobs, Economy Recovery and Innovation Ravi Kahlon said in a statement.
"The Labour Force Survey for November showed B.C.'s economy continuing its upward swing, with another 23,900 jobs gained throughout the province. Additionally, B.C.'s unemployment rate has fallen to 7.1%, well below the national average of 8.5 per cent.
"However, we know there are businesses still struggling and it's going to be many months before vaccines can get to everyone in British Columbia. Until then, we are focused on building a foundation of recovery that works for everyone in this province.
"B.C.'s recovery plan includes funding and measures to strengthen health care, create good jobs and opportunities for people, and help businesses come back stronger."
The unemployment rate in Canada continues to drop from May's record. (via Statistics Canada)Nationally, Canada's unemployment rate also saw a decrease with the unemployment rate being recorded at 8.5 per cent for November compared to 8.9 per cent the month before.
The country had a record high back in May which was 13.7 per cent.
Statistics Canada says full-time employment saw 99,000 more jobs last month while part-time work saw very little change.
Employment in accommodation and food services dropped for a second straight month with 24,000 being lost in November (-2.4 per cent)
Construction saw an increase of jobs, adding another 26,000 (+1.9 percent). It was the first increase in the industry since July.
Gains were also seen in the transportation and warehouse sector with an addition of 20,000 (2.1 per cent).
Natural resources also had another good month, adding 10,000 jobs (+3.1 percent) and returning to its employment pre-covid level.
