More than 8,000 Jamaicans travelled to Canada in 2025 under the Seasonal Agricultural Workers Programme, with a significant portion of participants bringing years of experience to the initiative, Canada’s High Commissioner to Jamaica has revealed.
Speaking at a send-off ceremony for seasonal agricultural workers departing for Canada, held Tuesday (January 6) at the Ministry of Labour and Social Security’s Overseas Employment Centre on East Street in downtown Kingston, High Commissioner His Excellency Mark Berman said approximately 3,303 workers had more than 10 years’ experience in the programme, while 1,051 workers were new participants. He also disclosed that 417 applications processed were for female workers.
“We’re really pleased to see that the programme continues to advance with a strong commitment to embracing gender diversity. Also of note, four differently abled workers were placed on Canadian farms, and I really do applaud this development, and we hope we’re able to continue to enhance this programme’s inclusiveness,” Mr. Berman said.
The High Commissioner also noted that the Jamaica-Canada farm work programme is marking 60 years of partnership this year. He said that over six decades, Jamaican workers have played an essential role in strengthening Canada’s agricultural sector and ensuring food security for Canadian families.
“And it’s your dedication and your hard work that have made a lasting impact, and for that, we’re deeply thankful. In this spirit, I want to recognise the outstanding collaboration between the Migration Section of the High Commission of Canada and the Ministry’s Overseas Employment Programme. This teamwork has been central to the programme’s success over the years,” he said.
Mr. Berman added that the Government of Canada remains committed to working closely with Jamaica and Canadian employers to ensure the programme continues to operate fairly, safely and efficiently, while protecting participants and sustaining benefits for all involved.
He also expressed appreciation to Jamaicans participating in the programme, noting that “your efforts not only sustain our agricultural industry but also enable Canadian growers and producers to thrive, strengthening food security at home and abroad”.
“Your participation creates economic opportunities for yourselves and for your families, it fosters new skills development, and it enables sharing of agricultural practices between our two countries,” he said.
The High Commissioner further acknowledged the resilience shown by Jamaican partners and workers following Hurricane Melissa.
“Despite the challenges and the disruptions caused by the storm, your determination to keep the programme moving forward has been truly inspiring. This perseverance reflects the strength of our partnership between Canada and Jamaica and the commitment that has sustained this programme for 60 years,” Mr. Berman said.
