Inflation was a bit lower than analysts had expected, however, following a rate of 1.2 percent the previous month.

According to Statistics Canada, gas prices increased 8.6 percent year over year.

Air transportation costs also increased, along with rail, highway bus and other transportation between cities.

Buying a home in the month was also more expensive, with homeowner replacement costs rising 4.2 percent. Tools and other household equipment prices increased too, while the costs of home furnishings and appliances fell.

Natural gas prices also increased, but electricity costs fell. The latter was due to legislated price reductions in Ontario.

Food prices were up, led by meat and fresh fruit.