Canada added 15,400 jobs in February from January to a total of almost 18.6 million jobs, according to seasonally adjusted numbers released today by Statistics Canada. A gain of 54,700 part-time jobs in February offset a loss of 39,300 full-time jobs.

Employment gains were observed in several industries, led by healthcare and social assistance. At the same time, employment declined in a number of other industries, including wholesale and retail trade, and manufacturing.

The unemployment rate edged down to 5.8% in February from 5.9% in January.

Employment increased in New Brunswick and Nova Scotia, while it decreased in Saskatchewan. There was little change in the other provinces.

Employment in Ontario rose by 15,700 jobs in February when compared to the previous month; part-time jobs rose by 18,100 while full-time jobs edged down by 2,500. Ontario’s unemployment rate remained at 5.5% February.