April 14, 2020 – The Ministry of Labour says Grenadians who are farm workers in Canada, stand ready to take up duties as soon as travel is permitted.

28 Grenadian workers are already in Canada and another 100 are waiting to travel to provide seasonal labour on farms. 

The closure of Grenada’s borders as part of efforts to prevent the spread of COVID-19, has delayed their departure. A similar scenario exists in other countries which provide the agriculture workers.

A press release from the Orgnisation of Eastern Caribbean States Liaison Service in Toronto, Canada noted that “regional and international commercial travel suspensions in the Caribbean, continue to pose serious challenges for travel to Canada, despite the recent approval of travel exemptions to Canada for Seasonal Agriculture workers.” 

The ECLS further stated that “all workers will be required to self-isolate for 14 days, upon arrival in Canada. Arrangements are being made by Canadian authorities, in collaboration with employers, to facilitate worker self-isolation.”

The Ministry of Labour confirmed that it has been in constant contact with the workers in Grenada and they are prepared to leave as soon as arrangements are finalised.