Charles praises Canadian Farm Work Programme

Minister of Labour & Social Security Pearnel Charles Jnr has sought to assure Jamaican farmworkers in Canada that they should not harbour fears about reporting any instance of abuse or poor working conditions there.

Mr. Charles is leading a delegation to observe the conditions of the Jamaica Farmworkers. The visit follows numerous complaints from farmworkers regarding reported inhumane conditions, low wages and other work-related concerns. The Labour Minister, speaking Tuesday on Radio Jamaica's Beyond the Headlines, said his team had already visited three farms and met with 362 workers. He characterised the tour as a useful exercise. He also said the farmworkers were able to speak candidly about the problems faced, and in some instances ensured that problems were remedied. Mr. Charles says the delegation also met with several employers, in what he described as an open discussion. The Labour Minister noted that the employers shared their concerns about the programme, including workers going absent without leave, which they claimed leads to the high cost of retraining. He said the employers also pointed to issues of poor attitude and work ethic among some of the farmworkers. Mr. Charles told the employers that their concerns would be addressed, adding that he would be implementing improved measures to ensure that isssues affecting both the employers and employees are addressed. The Labour Minister said farmworkers will have several avenues to voice any grievance they might have, including direct communication with him and vowed to continue improving the programme.