“This Statistical Review has always been widely distributed because it provides an accurate depiction of what is happening right across our Island,” said Minister Sheridan. “Having this detailed information about our population, labour force, personal incomes and industry is absolutely crucial for business planning and determining public policy.”

PEI highlights from 2007 include:

• Island population totals 138,627;

• Economic growth of 2.0 per cent;

• Employment increased by 1.0 per cent to average 69,300 for the year;

• Unemployment declined to 10.3 per cent, a 29-year low;

• Total labour incomes increased by 5.5 per cent;

• Farm cash receipts valued $364.0 million;

• The value of retail sales increased by 7.7 per cent;

• Housing starts totaled 750.

The 2007 PEI Annual Statistical Review can be viewed online at www.gov.pe.ca/photos/original/pt_annualreview.pdf. Printed copies will be available soon from Island Information Service, 11 Kent Street, Charlottetown (tel. 1-902-368-4000, fax 1-902-368-5544).