The Parry Sound Area Development Community's labor force has a slightly lower participation rate than Ontario due to a higher than average senior population. The unemployment rate in the development community fluctuates greatly throughout the year. The figures below represent the peak summer employment period and rates increasing upwards of 25% in the off season (Service Canada, 2007). Those unemployed represent a wealth of potential employees.
The surrounding Parry Sound District is also a reliable labour source with 82% of people working in a municipality other than that in which they reside. A 15 minute catchment area captures a labour force of over 2,000 and an additional 700 laborers are available within a 30 minute catchment area.
| Region | Size of Labour Force | Participation Rate | Employment Rate | Unemployment Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Development Community | ||||
| Total | 10,615 | 0.6% | 59.4% | 4.2% |
| Male | 5,185 | 66.7% | 64.1% | 4.0% |
| Female | 5,430 | 60.0% | 54.9% | 4.7% |
| Parry Sound District | ||||
| Total | 34,560 | 57.7% | 53.8% | 6.7% |
| Male | 17,145 | 61.2% | 57.2% | 6.5% |
| Female | 17,410 | 54.3% | 50.5% | 7.0% |
| Ontario | ||||
| Total | 9,819,420 | 67.1% | 62.8% | 6.4% |
| Male | 4,744,710 | 72.5% | 68.1% | 6.0% |
| Female | 5,074,710 | 62.1% | 57.8% | 6.8% |
| Source: Statistics Canada, 2006 Census | ||||
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