With the domestic side of the economy being relatively more labour intensive, the downturn has resulted in a sharp rise in the unemployment rate, which has risen from over 4 per cent to stand at over 14 per cent at present.
It is a pleasure to be here to announce the launch of the new 50 dollar bank note. This bank note features a symbol of Canadian innovation and scientific excellence: the Canadian Coast Guard icebreaker and research vessel, the Amundsen. Today is also a celebration of the 50th anniversary of the Coast Guard.