'Mild recession' for N.L. next year, Conference Board of Canada says

The Conference Board of Canada is predicting a "subdued" economic outlook for the next two years in Newfoundland and Labrador, because of plunging oil and metal pricesand the completion of big construction projects.

• N.L. facing 'string of deficits,' Conference Board of Canada says

The Board said in a release Monday that the province will see a "mild recession" in 2016, with the economy shrinking by 0.8 per cent.

A small rebound of 0.2 per cent is predicted for 2017.

• Nova Scotia to lead Atlantic Canada in economic growth in 2016: report

The Conference Board said "major projects have passed their peak investment levels and the matured offshore oil fields continue to produce less oil."

In addition, "the province is facing the challenge of low prices for both oil and metals, which will have a negative impact onnear-term investment and production decisions."

Other Atlantic Canada provinces fared better.

The Conference Board predicts "healthy gains"in Nova Scotia, mainly because of a big shipbuilding contract with Irving.

"Modest growth" is predicted for New Brunswick in the mining industry and home construction, with some idle wood mills expected to reopen.

Prince Edward Island's economy will slow next yearbecause of cuts in government spending, but pick up in 2017, said the board.

The Conference Board of Canada is a not-for-profit think-tank dedicated to researching and analyzing economic trends and public policy issues.