The number of layoff's, retrenchments decreased significantly during the second half of last year reaching a low of 11 316 in Dec 2009 down from a high of 19 891 in May 2009.  This supports the argument of "the worst is over".  Unfortunately during the first two months of this year layoff's, retrenchments increased slightly most probably due to seasonal factors rather than real economic factors.  Most significantly the new year is at a much lower base.  The new year should be much better for the labour market.

 The total number of  layoff's, retrenchments in the province from April 2007 to Mar 2010 434 144

 
Hopefully we will start seeing more good news