The British Columbia government has introduced a $4.3-million initiative aimed at tackling labour shortages in the province’s agriculture and food-processing industries, the Ministry of Agriculture and Food announced Friday.
The Recruitment, Retention and Innovative Skills Training Program seeks to recruit, train, and retain domestic workers for roles in farming, seafood, and food processing. The program is open to industry associations, partnerships, and groups of producers and processors.
“Over the past few years, we have become much more aware of where our food comes from and who produces it here in B.C.,” said Lana Popham, Minister of Agriculture and Food. “Farming and food production is tough work and rewarding work at the same time. We depend on generations of farmers around the province who put food on our tables. We also want to support new generations of food producers who are looking for opportunities available.”
The funding will support a range of activities, including short-term skills training, recruitment campaigns, and initiatives to promote job opportunities for under-represented groups. Programs will include paid training and work experience, as well as tools such as apps and websites to help coordinate seasonal worker placements.
The program, part of the larger $15-million Agriculture and Food Workforce Development Initiative announced in June 2023, is administered by the Investment Agriculture Foundation of B.C.
“IAF is so pleased to continue its role as a trusted partner delivering programs to B.C.’s agriculture and food sector,” said Jack DeWit, chair of IAF. “Addressing labour shortages in the sector will make the entire sector stronger.”
The province’s agriculture and food sector employed more than 73,000 people in 2022. Demand for workers is expected to grow in the coming years, particularly in the tree fruit, vine, and greenhouse industries.
Applications for the program are now open, with details available through the Investment Agriculture Foundation’s website at https://iafbc.ca/recruitment-retention-and-innovative-skills-training-program/
