Note to users

November 2003

This is to advise you of the current validity of Post Indexes calculated for the purpose of the Post Living Allowance applicable to Canadian Government expatriate personnel or persons under contract. All users must consult with Statistics Canada to ensure that the appropriate Index is used.

The analysis of Post Index surveys has been completed at the following locations. The results include the analysis of prices and costs for goods and services purchased on the local economy or from import sources at the time these surveys were carried out as well as adjustments to the indexes indicated by our continuing monthly reviews.

Subsequent to clarification from the Deparment of Foreign Affairs & International Trade, the Post Index for Port of Spain, Trinidad & Tobago has been recalculated. Accordingly, be advised of the adjustment to the Post Index for Port of Spain effective October 2003.

Price surveys have been carried out by the U.S. Department of State at the following location. The Post Index takes into account the conversion to an Ottawa base as well as adjustments to the index indicated by our continuing monthly reviews.

New Post Indexes have been requested for the following locations and are now published.

User departments have indicated that there are no personnel currently serving at the following locations. The Post Indexes for these locations have been discontinued.

Other Post Index adjustments are indicated on the basis of our continuing monthly reviews. These adjustments are predicated on shifts in the current values of the respective currencies used at the posts relative to the Canadian dollar. They also take into account comparative rates of change in consumer prices at these posts and in Ottawa since the last surveys were carried out.