The losses in the Goods-producing sector are partially covered by increases in the Services sector, which has seen the creation of an additional 5,800 jobs. The sub-sectors with a positive balance sheet are: Finance, insurance, real estate and leasing (+ 14,500), Other services (+ 14,300), Information, culture and recreation (+ 12,400 jobs), Accommodation and food services (+ 11,400), Corporate services, Business, building and other support services (+ 6,600). Some sub-sectors did not fair as well: Commerce (-21,100 jobs), Healthcare and social assistance (-11,200), Transportation and warehousing (-7,400), Educational services (-7,100), Public administration (-6,000) and Professional, scientific and technical services (-700).

Ottawa-Gatineau region: 54.1 % — acceptable
Since December 2008, this Census Metropolitan Area (CMA) has accumulated job losses. In April 2009, 3,900 jobs were lost these added to those of the previous four months brings the total to -24,700. The Index for this region thus continues the decline that began at the beginning of the year. It is set at 54.1 % for May (“acceptable” level).

Over the past 12 months, employment in this CMA has decreased by 1.7 %. This month’s Index ranks 58th out of 120, meaning there were 62 months with weaker indices over the past 10 years. The number of jobs in the region has nevertheless increased by 22 % in ten years.

Toronto region: 0 % — Unfavourable
In March, this CMA lost 1,200 jobs, bringing the total of jobs lost since the beginning of the year to 21,100. Therefore, the Jobboom Index remains at 0 % for the third consecutive month.

Over the past 12 months, employment has decreased by 0.8 % in the region. This month’s Index ranks 120th out of 120, meaning there were no other months with a weaker index over the past 10 years. From 1999 to 2009, employment in this region has nevertheless increased by 23 %.