Liaison Service says Canadian employers are interested in hiring Jamaican farm workers

The Jamaica Liaison Service (JLS) says it received several inquiries from prospective employers interested in hiring Jamaican farm workers, at last week’s staging of the Ontario Fruit and Vegetable Convention.

The JLS also engaged with more than 30 employers who attended the event.

The participation in the convention was part of continued efforts to build and strengthen relationships within the Canadian agricultural sector and expand opportunities under the Seasonal Agricultural Worker Programme (SAWP).

Labour Minister Pearnel Charles Jr. has tasked the Liaison Service,with utilizing the SAWP, as a key avenue to support Jamaica’s rebuilding efforts following the devastating impact of Hurricane Melissa.

Chief Liaison Officer, Althea Riley who led the delegation says the JLS presence at the Ontayrio Fruit and Vegetable Convention reflects Jamaica’s unwavering commitment to strengthening long-standing partnerships within the Canadian agricultural sector.

She says not only is the service nurturing existing relationships but actively creating new pathways for employment for Jamaican farm workers.

In the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, expanding opportunities under the Seasonal Agricultural Worker Programme is both an economic priority and a national responsibility.

She explains that the strong interest expressed by current and prospective employers affirms the high regard in which Jamaican workers are held and the JLS remains steadfast in its mission to support their welfare while contributing meaningfully to Jamaica’s recovery and growth.

The Ontario Fruit and Vegetable Convention is an annual two-day gathering of horticultural crop producers involved in fruit and vegetable production.

The event attracts a broad cross-section of the horticultural industry, including government representatives, industry leaders, consultants, producers, associations, researchers and educators from across Canada.

The convention features expert-led educational sessions, a dynamic trade exhibition and valuable networking opportunities designed to foster collaboration and growth within the sector.

The JLS booth experienced a steady flow of interested stakeholders, reflecting strong confidence in the professionalism and productivity of Jamaican workers under the SAWP.