“We take a close look at population, labour force, personal incomes and industry factors whenever we plan for the future,” said Provincial Treasurer Wes Sheridan. “The Annual Statistical Review is widely regarded as a choice source for this information. It provides a real snapshot of what is happening right across our province.”

PEI Highlights from 2008 include:

• Island population totals 139,818;

• Economic growth of 0.9 per cent;

• Employment increased by 1.3 per cent to average 70,200 for the year;

• Unemployment Rate increased slightly to 10.8 per cent;

• Total labour income increased by 3.7 per cent;

• Farm cash receipts valued $390.3 million, an increase of 1.1 per cent;

• The value of retail sales increased by 5.6 per cent;

• Housing starts totaled 712.

The 35th Annual Statistical Review contains new data tables on Justice and the Health of Islanders. The document 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).