The unemployment rate in the area that includes Bruce and Grey counties increased to 4.4 per cent in December.
According to data released by the Four County Labour Market Planning Board, the Stratford-Bruce Peninsula region shaved more than 1,700 full-time positions last month. That was partially offset by about 900 new part-time jobs.
The construction (-1,000 workers), business/building and other support services (-800) and agriculture (-700) industries led the job losses.
The healthcare and social assistance sector saw a sizeable increase in employment, with more than 2,100 new jobs.
The Stratford-Bruce Peninsula labour force participation rate was little changed last month.
Canada’s unemployment rate held steady at 5.8 per cent in December. While Ontario’s jobless figure ticked lower to 5.6 per cent.
