Glitches in Canadian farm work programme being fixed, Charles Jr

FROM workers complaining about poor working and living conditions, to employers complaining about the poor work ethics of some Jamaicans, the Canadian farm work programme was dogged by controversies last year.

But now Minister of Labour and Social Security Pearnel Charles Jr is confident that the issues which threatened the future of the Seasonal Agricultural Workers Programme (SAWP) in North America are finally being cleared up.

On Wednesday 111 Jamaicans left the island to participate in the SAWP in Canada and Charles Jr suggested that a more vibrant and responsive campaign to employ these workers is in the offing.

"We are working here as your Government, in collaboration with the Government of Canada, to make sure that we improve in the selection, in the orientation and in the management process," Charles Jr told the workers prior to their departure from the Overseas Employment Centre on East Street in Kingston.

He told the crowded hall that his ministry has spoken to, and has met, with several stakeholders, such as senators, ministers, farmers and other partners, about a stronger orientation programme which is being developed for the workers.

"We will continue that dialogue to make sure that, as best as possible, we are creating an environment where you are safe, can excel and contribute, come back home and see where your hard-earned funds can be invested in your children, community and life," he said.

"We are looking at the laws and the regulations, we are reaching out to all stakeholders that are relevant and connected to your journey and we are strengthening the liaison services for you," Charles Jr promised the workers who have been given employment opportunities on various farms across Canada for several months.

The minister assured the workers that a stronger orientation programme is being developed for their benefit. He said that 2024 is the year when the Government is going to enhance, protect and improve the programme, but the Administration cannot do it alone.