Barbados’ longstanding Seasonal Agricultural Worker Programme (SAWP) is undergoing significant operational shifts as Canadian employers increasingly prioritize experienced laborers over new recruits, according to testimony presented to the nation’s House of Assembly on Monday.
During the Ministry of Labour’s Estimates hearing, officials revealed that while the program remains active, placement numbers have demonstrated a consistent downward trajectory. Acting Director of the Barbados Employment Career and Counselling Service, Moreen Bowen, presented data showing participation dropping from 102 workers in 2024 to 86 in 2025, with only 59 positions currently requested for 2026.
The decline stems primarily from Canadian employers specifically requesting ‘repeat workers’—Barbadians with prior experience in Canadian agricultural operations. This preference for pre-trained labor has reduced opportunities for new participants despite continued overseas demand for the program.
Labour Minister Colin Jordan confirmed the program’s continuation under its official SAWP designation, though noted many citizens still refer to it as the traditional ‘farm labour programme.’ He emphasized that Barbados maintains vigorous advocacy with Canadian authorities, particularly valuable amid increasingly restrictive global migration policies.
Program administrators are implementing strategic adaptations to preserve Barbados’ competitive position within the regional labor export market. New employment avenues are being developed, including a recent initiative in New Brunswick’s seafood processing sector where 16 Barbadians will commence work in April.
Bowen explained that Canadian unemployment rates directly impact recruitment, as regulations require employers to hire locally when provincial unemployment exceeds six percent.
Minister Jordan issued stern warnings regarding participant conduct, establishing zero tolerance for workplace violations—particularly cannabis use despite Canada’s legalization. ‘Once you strike, you’re out,’ Jordan stated, emphasizing that disciplinary breaches jeopardize Barbados’ entire participation framework.
The ministry also reinforced merit-based selection processes, prohibiting name-dropping or external influence in recruitment decisions. Both men and women remain eligible for the program, though final hiring determinations rest with Canadian employers.
Historically established in 1966 as a bilateral arrangement between Canada and Jamaica, the program expanded to include Barbados and Trinidad and Tobago in 1967. It originally addressed domestic unemployment while providing workers access to superior wages and supplying Canadian farmers with reliable seasonal labor.