Jamaica has commenced its 2026 seasonal agricultural program with the inaugural departure of 182 workers to Canada, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s overseas employment initiatives. The send-off ceremony, held at Kingston’s Overseas Employment Centre, was presided over by Minister of Labour and Social Security Pearnel Charles Jr., who emphasized the program’s transformative impact on Jamaican families and national economic resilience.
Minister Charles characterized the event as more than a mere departure, describing it as ‘a continuation of a proud legacy built on discipline, integrity, and hard work.’ Official statistics reveal that since January 1, 2025, over 15,000 Jamaicans have secured overseas employment in Canada and the United States, exceeding previous annual figures.
The current cohort includes 97 workers who departed Tuesday with an additional 85 scheduled for Wednesday travel. These agricultural specialists will be dispersed across multiple Canadian provinces—Ontario, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland—where they will dedicate eight months to greenhouse operations and fruit and vegetable cultivation.
A noteworthy 90% of the group consists of returning workers, indicating strong employer satisfaction and the program’s sustained success. The ceremony was attended by Canadian High Commissioner Mark Berman, alongside senior ministry officials and media representatives.
Minister Charles highlighted the program’s particular importance following Hurricane Melissa, which has compromised housing and livelihoods throughout Jamaica. ‘Overseas employment provides stability, dignity, and a pathway for families to rebuild during this recovery period,’ he affirmed.
As Jamaica approaches the 60th anniversary of the Seasonal Agricultural Workers Programme in 2026, the government reaffirmed its commitment to both preserving the program’s integrity and implementing modernizations for future sustainability. Workers were urged to maintain health and safety protocols, support fellow team members, and uphold Jamaica’s reputation for excellence.