The unemployment rate in New Brunswick was 9.4 per cent in the fourth quarter of 2011, up 0.5 per cent from the previous quarter.

On a seasonally adjusted* basis, there were 2,600 more jobs in the fourth quarter of 2011 compared to the previous quarter. The increase resulted from the gain of 4,400 full-time jobs, which overshadowed a loss of 1,800 part-time positions. The gain in the unemployment rate came from a larger number of people joining the labour force than were able to find jobs.

Jobs were lost in agriculture, natural resources, and manufacturing, as well as in transportation and warehousing services, the financial sector, scientific services and public administration.

Quarterly job losses in these industries were more than offset by hiring in utilities and construction, as well as in trade, business, education, healthcare, information and culture, and accommodation and food services.
 

* Seasonal adjustment removes normal seasonal fluctuations.