The province’s population stood at 508,270 as of April 1, 2008, according to the latest information released by Statistics Canada.  This represents an increase of 171 persons (or 0.03%) from the previous quarter and marks the third consecutive quarter of population growth.

The population increase from January 2008 to April 2008 was due to positive net migration.  Net migration totalled 424 persons during the first quarter as the province experienced net inter-provincial in-migration of 206 and net international migration of 218 persons.

Natural population declined by 253 as deaths outnumbered births during the January to April 2008 period.  The number of births has been trending downward for four decades because of declining fertility rates and, more recently, a decline in the number of women of child-bearing age. 

If trends in natural population change continue, migration will be the main determining factor for population growth in the short-term.  Migration patterns recorded in the last three quarters have resulted in renewed population growth.