Changes in Canada won't significantly affect farm work programme - Gov't

Minister of Labour Pearnel Charles Jr says he does not expect Jamaica to experience any significant fallout from the announcement that Canada is to cut the number of temporary foreign workers being let into that country.

Prime Minister of Canada Justin Trudeau made the announcement regarding the temporary Foreign Worker Programme on Monday.

A media release from Charles on Tuesday noted that Trudeau has made it clear that there will be exceptions for the food security sectors, like agriculture, food and fish processing.

There will also be exceptions for construction and health care where acute staff shortages still exist.

Charles said the ministry does not expect that there will be any significant fallout from the announcement.

"Notwithstanding the Government of Jamaica has proactively assigned our Permanent Secretary Colette Roberts Risden on this special assignment to strengthen the programme, provide sustainability, and to protect Jamaica's interests," Charles said.

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