Following two months of increases, the number of jobs in Canada fell by 51,600 in August when compared to July for a total of 18.6 million jobs, according to seasonally adjusted numbers released today by Statistics Canada. The unemployment rate rose to 6.0% from 5.8% in July.

The job losses came in part-time employment, where the number of jobs fell by 92,000. That was partially offset a gain of 40,400 full-time jobs in August. A majority of the job losses also happened in the public sector, which lost 38,000 jobs. The number of private sector employees and self-employed workers was little changed.

In August, employment decreased in professional, scientific and technical services; wholesale and retail trade; and construction. At the same time, employment was up in business, building and other support services.

The goods-producing sector lost 30,400 in August compared to July, and the services-producing sector lot 21,200 jobs.

Employment declined in Ontario and increased in Alberta and Manitoba. Employment was little changed in the other provinces. Ontario lost 80,700 part-time jobs in August with employment at full-time jobs little changed.

The unemployment rate in Ontario rate rose to 5.7% August from 5.4% in July.