More Cashola for Canadians -- Says Report

Canadians who get salaries can expect an average increase of 3.5 per cent in 2009, a survey from compensation and benefit consultants Morneau Sobeco suggests.

Despite the uncertain economic climate, "the reality of an aging workforce and tight labour markets" means attracting and retaining workers is a key issue for the majority of Canadian employers, the company said in a news release Thursday.

Including promotions and special adjustments, the average raise increases to 4.1 per cent , Morneau said.

Alberta, British Columbia and the Prairies are above the national average, headed by Alberta with a predicted 4.8 per cent rise. Ontario, Quebec and the Atlantic region are below the average, with expected increases of 3.2 or 3.3 per cent.

Including promotions and adjustments, Alberta again heads the list with a 5.6 per cent jump, while every other region is over four per cent, except Ontario at 3.8 per cent.

Morneau said it surveyed 282 organizations with more than 840,000 employees across the country between June and August.