New funding to support agricultural workforce on Prince Edward Island

CANADA, December 12 - A new program will help the agriculture industry on Prince Edward Island continue to build capacity and improve training for those working in it.

Through the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (Sustainable CAP), Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada and the PEI Department of Agriculture are investing over $300,000 in the Agriculture Labour Sub-Program. This new program stream will provide farmers and agricultural organizations with access to funding for a variety of initiatives focused on improving the workforce. These include but are not limited to:

• Recruitment missions; 
• Developing on-farm resources for employees with English as a second language; 
• Workforce training and professional development opportunities; 
• Developing models and strategies for employee childcare and transportation; 
• Participating in and attending job fairs and trade shows; 
• Other fees, accommodations, and registrations related to recruiting and retaining staff.

Sustainable CAP is a 5-year, $3.5-billion investment by the federal, provincial and territorial governments to strengthen the competitiveness, innovation, and resiliency of Canada's agriculture, agri‐food, and agri‐based products sector. This agreement includes $1 billion in federal programs and activities and a $2.5 billion commitment that is cost-shared 60% federally and 40% provincially/territorially for programs that are designed and delivered by provinces and territories.

Quotes:

“From potatoes to beef and dairy – agriculture is one of the most important industries on the Island. By investing in people and providing new training and development opportunities, we can help ensure the sector remains strong for generations to come.” 

-    The Honourable Lawrence MacAulay, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food. 

“I am pleased to be continuing our efforts to support and build the workforce in our Agriculture industry. Addressing labour challenges in our industry is a mandate item for us, and by implementing this program alongside other Provincial initiatives, we remain committed to encouraging growth and development in the sector so that agriculture can continue to drive our economy.”

-    The Honourable Bloyce Thompson, PEI Deputy Premier and Minister of Agriculture. 

Media contacts:
Kip Ready
Department of Agriculture
kjready@gov.pe.ca

Annie Cullinan  
Director of Communications 
Office of the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food  
annie.cullinan@agr.gc.ca