Canadian employment declined by 24,200 jobs in July with the largest decline reported in Alberta. The national decline was evenly split between full-time and part-time work, notably in private sector employment in the service sector (retail and wholesale trade). The national unemployment rate rose 0.2 percentage points to 5.7 per cent, as more people were looking for work in July.  

Meanwhile in BC, employment held steady for the second consecutive month in July. The unemployment rate was also little changed at 4.4 per cent.  Compared to one year ago, employment in BC is up 4.8 per cent.

Copyright British Columbia Real Estate Association. Reprinted with permission.