Farmworkers depart for Canada in 59th year of programme
Published:Saturday | January 4, 2025 | 12:10 AMAndre Williams/Staff Reporter
Yesterday, 96 Jamaican farmworkers departed for Canada as part of the Seasonal Agricultural Workers Programme (SAWP), continuing a tradition that has lasted nearly 60 years.
Over 80 per cent of the workers are returning participants, while the remaining individuals are first-time entrants to the programme, which holds significant importance for the Ministry of Labour and Social Security.
Acting permanent secretary, Dione Jennings, addressed the workers at the send-off ceremony yesterday morning at the ministry’s Overseas Employment Centre on East Street in Kingston, emphasising their role as ambassadors.
“The only responsibility you carry in this programme is to represent us well,” Jennings stated.
In 2023, a total of 14,434 Jamaicans participated in overseas employment placements facilitated by the Ministry of Labour and Social Security. Of this number, 8,255 workers (57 per cent) travelled to Canada under SAWP.
“We are ensuring that people in Jamaica can take part in a programme of this nature,” Jennings said, as she chaired the send-off event.
The SAWP marks its 59th year in operation.
Michael Lazaruk, senior trade commissioner on behalf of Canadian High Commissioner to Jamaica, Mark Berman, extended his best wishes to the first cohort of 2025.
“Jamaicans have long been vital contributors to Canada’s agricultural and food security, and for that, we are truly grateful,” Lazaruk said. He further emphasised the importance of the programme’s 59th anniversary and the ongoing cooperation between Canada and Jamaica.
“Successful partnerships like this require close coordination and a shared vision,” Lazaruk added.
“The Canadian government will continue working with Jamaica and Canadian employers to ensure that this programme operates safely, fairly, and efficiently, safeguarding the participants while delivering benefits for all involved.”
In spite of its success, data have shown a decline in the number of participants in the SAWP over the past two years. The 2023 Economic and Social Survey report from the Planning Institute of Jamaica noted a five-per-cent decrease in the number of Jamaicans traveling to Canada under the programme.
This decline was attributed to adverse weather conditions, which damaged crops and led to cancellations of worker orders. Additionally, negative publicity surrounding working conditions within the programme might have deterred potential participants.
LIFELINE FOR MANY JAMAICAN FAMILIES
State Minister in the Ministry of Labour and Social Security, Dr Norman Dunn, singled out Kevin Reid from his South East St Mary constituency and encouraged the workers to seize the opportunity to realize their dreams.
“This joint send-off symbolises the strong bilateral partnership with our Canadian friends and the continued faith that the employers continue to place in our Jamaican farmworkers,” Dr Dunn stated.
He urged the workers to carefully review their contract requirements and perform their duties with diligence and commitment.
Minister of Labour and Social Security Pearnel Charles Jr spoke on the importance of the Canada-Jamaica partnership.
“The programme has become a lifeline for many Jamaican families, offering opportunities that positively impact entire communities,” Charles Jr said.
He highlighted that some farmworkers have been on the programme for over 25 years.
The minister also shared stories of workers who have used their earnings to support their families and communities, noting the unspoken generosity of some workers who give back in various ways.
“We want to continue the work of making sure that the programme is stronger, is dynamic and responsive to the needs as it grows,” Charles Jr added.
In recent years, the ministry has implemented new liaison and communication systems to better support workers. Liaison officers are now stationed in the same regions as farms, making it easier to reach workers when needed.
The ministry also acted on feedback from workers through a fact-finding report presented by Karl Samuda, then Minister of Labour and Social Security, in 2023. Among the report’s 27 recommendations was the need for more efficient coverage of farms and improved communication with liaison officers, a challenge identified by workers.
Despite these challenges, the report praised the dedication of liaison officers, noting that their commitment remains unquestionable.