https://www.jamaicaobserver.com/news/farm-workers-fuming/
I have always been against these farm work programs. The argument that Canadians will not do the work is false. Canadians are hard working and work under even more severe conditions in remote northern work camps in the oil, gas and forestry industries. In one case during my younger years in Canada, I lived in a tent above the arctic circle working on a project. Temperatures dropped to the - 60 degrees Celsius sometimes. The problem with the farm work programs as presently structured is that it does not pay the Canadian level of wages for that difficult work. The farm work programs prey on the desperation of poor workers in poor countries like Jamaica. In addition, these workers do not enjoy the same rights as Canadian workers such as the right to refuse unsafe work - even though they are supposed to according to the rules of the program. The farm work programs are a subsidy to these Canadian farms. If a business cannot pay levels of wages demanded by the Canadian labour market, those businesses have no business being in business!
Raymond D. Grant
Isaac Onywere responds:
Jamaican farm workers have been an integral part of the agricultural industry in both Canada and the United States for decades. These workers, who come to North America on temporary work visas, play a crucial role in ensuring that farms are able to produce crops and meet demand. While there are certainly benefits to both the workers and the employers, there are also some disadvantages that must be considered.
One of the primary benefits of the Jamaican farm worker program is that it provides employment opportunities for workers who may not have many options in their home country. In Jamaica, the unemployment rate is high, and many people struggle to find work. By coming to Canada or the United States, these workers are able to earn a steady income that they can use to support themselves and their families. This can be particularly important for those who have children or other dependents.
For employers, the benefits of hiring Jamaican farm workers are numerous. First and foremost, these workers are typically very hardworking and dedicated. They understand the importance of their job and take pride in doing it well. Additionally, because they are here on a temporary basis, there are no long-term obligations or commitments. This allows farms to adjust their workforce based on seasonal demand and other factors. Finally, the program provides employers with a reliable source of labor that they can count on year after year.
Despite these benefits, there are also some disadvantages to the Jamaican farm worker program. For workers, one of the main challenges is being away from their families for extended periods of time. While they may be able to send money home to support their loved ones, they are still missing out on important moments and milestones. Additionally, they may face discrimination or mistreatment from employers or other workers.
For employers, one of the main disadvantages is the cost of the program. While the workers themselves are paid a fair wage, employers must also cover the cost of travel, housing, and other expenses. Additionally, there can be logistical challenges associated with managing a large temporary workforce, including language barriers and cultural differences.
In conclusion, the Jamaican farm worker program has both benefits and disadvantages for both workers and employers. While it provides valuable employment opportunities and a reliable source of labor for farms, it can also be challenging for workers who are away from their families and for employers who must navigate the complexities of managing a temporary workforce. Despite these challenges, the program has been successful in ensuring that farms are able to produce crops and meet demand, and it is likely to remain an important part of the agricultural industry for years to come.
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