The value of building permits in Saskatchewan fell 9.2 per cent in May from the month before. Statistics Canada says nationally, there was a rise of 20 per cent. That can be almost entirely attributed to Ontario with a rise of 24 per cent and Quebec, with a rise of 72 per cent. Compared to May of last year, the value in Saskatchewan fell a whopping 41.5 per cent. Only New Brunswick and Manitoba were hit harder. Nationally the value was off 13.6 per cent. Total value of permits in Saskatchewan in May came to $77.2 million.

In terms of census metropolitan areas, the Saskatoon CMA fell 17.3 per cent April to May. Six areas of 35 fared worse, including Regina which was down 27.3 per cent. Nationally, sales were up 23 per cent. Compared to a year ago, sales here were down nearly 51 per cent. Only two CMAs saw larger declines. Nationally, values were down ten percent. The total value of permits in Saskatoon was $33.7 million.