Labour & Social Security Minister Pearnel Charles Jr. says the annual review of the Canadian Seasonal Agricultural Workers Programme will be held in Jamaica this November, as the two countries seek to strengthen the long-running initiative.
Mr Charles, speaking on Sunday from Canada in an interview with Radio Jamaica’s Real Business, said the programme, now in its 60th year, continues to be highly valued by Canadian farmers, who regard Jamaican workers as key contributors because of their productivity and reliability.
He said this year’s review will focus on improving the working and living conditions of participants, while also exploring opportunities to expand the programme.
The Labour Minister added that discussions will also examine the training and social development needs of workers to help ensure the programme’s long-term sustainability.
He noted that the initiative remains important to Jamaica’s economy and rural communities, providing employment opportunities and generating valuable foreign exchange earnings.