Ottawa: Canada’s employment market came under renewed pressure in September, with the country recording a loss of 68,000 jobs after a decline of 42,000 in August, according to Statistics Canada. The combined reduction over the two months reached approximately 110,000, while the unemployment rate climbed to 6.5%.
The latest figures have fuelled criticism of Prime Minister Mark Carney’s government. Conservative MP Michael Cooper questioned the government’s economic approach, raising concerns about unemployment and the declining share of people participating in the labour force.
Government representatives have pointed to tax relief and other assistance measures intended to ease financial pressure on households.
Young workers were particularly affected by the downturn. Employment among people aged 15 to 24 fell by 48,000 in September, while the youth unemployment rate stood at around 13%. A further decline in labour force participation has added to concerns about employment opportunities for younger Canadians.
Women aged 25 to 54 also experienced a setback, with employment dropping by 28,000 during the month. Their unemployment rate rose to 5.3%.
The figures underline the challenges facing Canada’s labour market, particularly for young jobseekers and other groups experiencing employment losses. The latest data are likely to keep economic performance and job creation in focus as the government faces questions over its response.
