In November, employment slightly increased by 25,000, lowering the employment rate to 61.8% as population growth surpassed employment growth. Unemployment rate increased to 5.8%, continuing an upward trend. Manufacturing and construction sectors saw increases, while wholesale and retail trade and finance sectors experienced declines. Employment rose in New Brunswick and fell in Prince Edward Island, with little change in other provinces. St. Catharines–Niagara and Oshawa had the most significant unemployment rate increases. Total work hours decreased by 0.7%, but average hourly wages rose 4.8% year-over-year. Most recent immigrants faced difficulties finding work related to their credentials or overseas experience.
