The unemployment rate in the Stratford-Bruce Peninsula Economic Region, which includes Bruce and Grey counties, jumped to 8.1 per cent in April.
It's an increase from the 5.9 per cent jobless rate posted by the regional economy in March. The April unemployment numbers reflect the first full month restrictions were in place limiting businesses across Ontario to curb the spread of COVID-19.
Overall, the regional economy lost more than 6,600 jobs (4,000 part-time positions and 2,600 full-time).
The April job losses in the area were led by the wholesale and retail trade, accommodation and food services, manufacturing and construction industries.
The Ontario unemployment rate jumped to 11.3 per cent in April. Nationally, more than two-million positions were lost and unemployment spiked to 13 per cent.
The Four County Labour Market Planning Board continues to survey individuals in Bruce, Grey, Huron and Perth counties to better understand the impact COVID-19 is having on the local workforce. You can click here to take the survey.