[Biff]

December 19, 2008

STRONG POPULATION GROWTH
CONTINUES IN MANITOBA: SWAN
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Gain of 25,300 People in Last Two Years
Best in 36 Years

Manitoba continues to attract significant numbers of immigrants and has recorded its strongest population growth in 36 years, Competitiveness, Training and Trade Minister Andrew Swan announced today.

As of Oct. 1, Manitoba's population stood at 1,210,500 people, according to figures released today by Statistics Canada. During the last 12 months, the population jumped by 13,124, the largest one-year growth in 25 years. It grew by 25,300 in the last two years, the strongest two-year growth in 36 years.

"Manitoba had the fourth-fastest growth rate among the provinces during the past two years," said Swan. "We welcome these new Manitobans who add immeasurably to the diversity and economic strength of the province."

Statistics Canada figures show that 15,733 more individuals came to Manitoba than left for other jurisdictions in the last two years. Manitoba welcomed a record 21,748 international immigrants from October 2006 to October 2008, the highest influx since 1971 when modern records began.

"Manitoba is attracting people from all corners of the world as the preferred location for their new home," said Swan. "Our government's successful Provincial Nominee Program now accounts for more than 70 per cent of all new arrivals in Manitoba."