Almost 8,000 Jamaicans have traveled overseas for work beneath the federal government’s Abroad Employment Programme for the reason that begin of 2025, in keeping with Minister of Labour and Social Safety Pearnel Charles Jr.
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Talking at a departure ceremony on Tuesday, July 15, on the Ministry’s Abroad Employment Centre in downtown Kingston, Charles mentioned nearly all of these employees are returning to the identical farms and employers attributable to robust previous efficiency.
“Nearly 90 per cent are returning. Ten per cent are new, and lots of are being requested again as a result of they’ve executed a stellar job,” the minister instructed the most recent group of seasonal agricultural employees headed to Canada.
He famous that 103 employees had departed earlier that day, with one other 209 scheduled to depart on Wednesday. Of the latter group, 51 will likely be touring for the primary time—together with 4 girls.
Charles mentioned the Ministry is actively working to extend feminine participation within the programme, notably within the hospitality sector in america. “Exit and get your certification, get your expertise, so we will try to get you a chance,” he urged.
The Minister additionally dedicated to strengthening employee help companies, pledging to satisfy with liaison officers to make sure they’re conducting extra farm visits and are accessible to employees in Canada and the U.S.
“Farm employees, we’re paying for a service to guard you, to be sure you have individuals in Canada and within the US that will help you. The liaison officers are there to just be sure you have somebody to lean on, to name [and that] you could have an workplace there to be sure that your curiosity is served. Be sure you use it to your greatest profit. Don’t sit down and say to your self, ‘I can’t get in contact with them’. If that’s occurring, you need to let your Minister know,” he said.
“They need to be out there to you, and there ought to be no hesitation in your half in reaching out when you encounter any difficulties or when you want any help. The Authorities of Jamaica has put in place this service to assist our farm employees,” he added.
Minister of State Dr. Norman Dunn, who additionally addressed the employees, reminded them that they’re Jamaica’s “model ambassadors” and urged them to take care of a optimistic picture overseas.
