In order to hire Jamaicans with impairments, the Ministry of Labor and Social Security has been in contact with a number of Canadian firms involved in foreign farm work programs.
Pearnel Charles Jr., the portfolio minister, revealed the information lately.
“We have already started to have positive conversation with some of the employers in Canada, some of whom are open to the prospect of inviting and welcoming persons with disabilities who still have the capability and the right attitude for them to get an opportunity to engage in a programme like the farm work programme,” he said.
“Therefore, we are making those efforts and holding those conversations in the hopes that we can eventually make room in these programs for people with disabilities,” the minister continued.
Charles recently traveled to Canada to discuss the farm work program with officials and important stakeholders.
He also visited several farms, which provided invaluable opportunities for engaging in intensive discussions with the farmworkers on the ground.
The minister also used the opportunity to review various notable locations, pinpointed in prior reports, to gain a comprehensive understanding of the programme’s status.
Through these direct connections, he aimed to acquire vital feedback that will greatly impact future strategic directions to expand and broaden the programme.
Meanwhile, Charles said following visits to farms in Canada and the United States, the ministry is now advancing “what we would say are enhancements in the programme, particularly in the selection [and] in the orientation of the workers, so that you can identify persons who not just have the physical skill, but have the right mental attitude and mindset to take on the work”.
“Every farmworker represents this nation as an ambassador, and their actions will influence future opportunities for others.” Thus, in order to ensure that we have the strongest, most comprehensive program and that, most importantly, the living and working conditions for our employees are where they should be, we are collaborating with employers, our partners in Canada and the USA, and our local partners, said Charles.