Recent data from Statistics Canada reveals concerning trends in the Canadian labor market, according to an analysis shared by X user @igetredpilled. The August 2024 figures show a shift towards part-time employment and rising permanent layoffs, potentially signaling economic challenges ahead.

While Canada added 22,000 jobs in August, this growth was entirely in part-time positions. The economy actually lost 44,000 full-time jobs while gaining 66,000 part-time roles. Full-time employment growth has been declining for over two years, now sitting at just 0.8% year-over-year.

@igetredpilled points out that this scenario bears a striking resemblance to May 1990, mere months before Canada entered a recession. The employment rate has dropped to 60.8%, a level not seen since the 1990s recession when excluding pandemic-related disruptions.

Particularly alarming is the trend in permanent layoffs, which have been increasing year-over-year since April 2023. In August, permanent layoffs were up 9.5% compared to the previous year, with the three-month moving average reaching 9.7% — significantly above the 35-year average of 0.9%.

These trends could have far-reaching implications for the Canadian economy. A shift towards part-time work often leads to reduced income and benefits for workers, potentially exacerbating income inequality. It may also signal decreasing business confidence, which could further dampen economic growth.

Also read: Canada’s Job Market Continues to Mask Underlying Weakness with Public Sector Expansion

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