The Canadian staffing index — a measure of temporary staffing in Canada — jumped to a reading of 94 in March, according to the latest data released yesterday by the Association of Canadian Search, Employment and Staffing Services. The reading is a 17-point increase from February, the largest sequential increase since the index began in July 2008, according to the association.

Accounting for typical holiday hiring in December and January and the short work month of February, the March reading brings the industry back in line with the slow recovery experienced up to November.

The index is based on a benchmark score of 100 in July 2008. The index is produced by ACSESS in conjunction with Staffing Industry Analysts.