A report coming from E-Health Sask shows a decline in births in the province from the previous year – more than 12,802 live births were reported – down from the previous year’s total of more than 14,559 – and well below the average for the last 8 years. No reason was given for the apparent decline in birth rate – notably final number are calculated into March.

The report also revealed the most popular names for the year 2022.

Olivia was the most popular name for baby girls marking  the eighth year in a row – with 60 baby girls born and given the name. The top spot was followed by Amelia, Emma, Ava, Lily and Sophia.

Noah was the most popular name for baby boys for the second year in a row year with 58 births, just edging out long-time favourite Liam – which was followed by Leo,Jack ,Lucas, ,Benjamin and Theodore.