Northeast B.C. unemployment increased in February

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — Northeast B.C’s unemployment rate increased to 5.7 per cent in February 2024, according to the latest labour force survey from Statistics Canada.

There were 38,000 northeast B.C. residents employed in February, lower than the 38,200 employed in January.

In February 2023, there were 34,800 people employed in the region, and the unemployment rate was 4.1 per cent.

B.C.’s unemployment rate was 5.3 per cent in February, slightly higher than January at 5.2 per cent.

“Today, on International Women’s Day, we renew our commitment to taking action for gender equity,” said Branda Bailey, Minister of Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation. 

“This month, women’s employment increased by 3,800 and more women are employed full-time in B.C. now than at any time.”

The most significant job loss was in the wholesale trades sector, with 6,100 fewer people employed in February.

The most significant job increase was in the educational services sector, with an additional 6,700 people employed.

Nationally, the jobless rate increased to 5.8 per cent.