Jamaican Farmworkers Head to Canada for Seasonal Agricultural Work
A sendoff ceremony was held for 96 Jamaican farmworkers, including 12 first-timers, who began their journey to Canada on January 3 under the Seasonal Agricultural Workers Programme (SAWP). The workers will be employed in Ontario and New Brunswick, working in areas such as Leamington, West Lorne, and Brantford.
Why Do Jamaican Farmworkers Head to Canada in January?
It may seem unusual for Jamaica to send farmworkers to cold Canada in early January, but Canada needs farm workers during the early growing and harvesting seasons. The Canadian provinces of Ontario and New Brunswick require labor for tasks like preparing fields, planting crops, and working in greenhouses, which begin early in the year.
"Leave No One Behind" (LNOB) Policy
At the send-off ceremony in Kingston, Labour Minister Pearnel Charles Jr. highlighted the introduction of the "Leave No One Behind" (LNOB) policy during the recruitment process for the 2025 season. This policy ensures that all interviewed candidates are given a fair chance and undergo tests for numeracy, literacy, and psychometric skills. Those with reading or numeracy challenges are referred to the HEART/NSTA Trust for remedial training. Mr. Charles emphasized that those not suited for farm work are redirected to business training or employment readiness programs to ensure personal growth.
Partnership Between Jamaica and Canada
This year marks the 59th anniversary of the partnership between Jamaica and Canada under this program. Senior Trade Commissioner Michael Lazaruk, speaking on behalf of Canada’s High Commissioner Mark Berman, acknowledged the vital contributions of Jamaican workers to Canada’s agriculture and food security. He assured continued efforts for a fair, safe, and efficient program.
Conclusion
The partnership between Jamaica and Canada under the SAWP is a testament to the importance of international cooperation in the agricultural sector. The "Leave No One Behind" policy demonstrates the commitment to fairness and inclusivity in the recruitment process. As the program continues to grow, it is essential to recognize the vital contributions of Jamaican workers to Canada’s agriculture and food security.
FAQs
- What is the Seasonal Agricultural Workers Programme (SAWP)?
The SAWP is a program that allows Jamaican farmworkers to work in Canada on a seasonal basis. - How many Jamaican farmworkers are heading to Canada?
96 farmworkers, including 12 first-timers, are heading to Canada under the SAWP. - What are the Canadian provinces where the workers will be employed?
The workers will be employed in Ontario and New Brunswick, working in areas such as Leamington, West Lorne, and Brantford. - What is the "Leave No One Behind" (LNOB) policy?
The LNOB policy is a program that ensures all interviewed candidates are given a fair chance and undergo tests for numeracy, literacy, and psychometric skills. Those with reading or numeracy challenges are referred to the HEART/NSTA Trust for remedial training.
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