In November, employment showed a modest increase of 25,000, resulting in a decline in the employment rate to 61.8%, as population growth outpaced employment growth.
The unemployment rate rose to 5.8%, marking a sustained upward trend. The manufacturing and construction sectors experienced growth, while the wholesale and retail trade, as well as the finance sectors, saw declines. Employment increased in New Brunswick but decreased in Prince Edward Island, with marginal changes in other provinces. St. Catharines–Niagara and Oshawa witnessed the most significant increases in the unemployment rate.
Total work hours saw a 0.7% decrease, yet average hourly wages rose by 4.8% year-over-year. Recent immigrants faced challenges in securing employment related to their credentials or overseas experience.