Double digit unemployment in the area in May

Unemployment in the North Bay area last month was way up year-over-year, but was also below the national figure.

Stats Canada say the jobless rate locally was 11.5 percent in May.

That’s up from 4.6 percent in the same month in 2019.

The figures include The City of North Bay, Callander, East Ferris and Bonfield.

National unemployment reached a record high in May, at 13.7 percent, topping the previous high of 13.1 per cent set in December 1982.

The increase came as more people started looking for work.

Stats Canada reports the economy added 289,600 jobs in May, with businesses reopening amid easing public health restrictions.

(With files from The Canadian Press)
(Photo by station staff)