Source: The Canadian Press

Statistics Canada says its index of leading indicators of economic growth rose 0.5% in August.

This matches its average increase over the previous two months.

The agency says manufacturing continues to push growth.

Orders for durable manufactured goods rose 5.2%, continuing growth which began last November.

The housing index declined 4%, which in turn pushed furniture and appliance sales down for a second straight month.

Spending on other durable goods rebounded one per cent after five straight monthly decreases.