Production Lareault, Canada’s largest producer of strawberry plants and other seasonal crops marked its 70th year of operation in September, with a special celebration—Jamaican Appreciation Day. The new owners, Antoine Casimir and Andrea Borodenko, hosted the event at their Lavaltrie farm to honor the Jamaican and other foreign workers whose labor is critical to Quebec’s agricultural success. The event was more than a milestone for the farm; it was a heartfelt tribute to the seasonal workers who have contributed immensely to the region’s farming industry.
Founded in 1953 by Luc and Lyne Lareault, Production Lareault has grown to cover 185 hectares in Lanaudière and supplies around 50% of the strawberry plants cultivated in Canada and the United States. Under the leadership of Casimir and Borodenko, the farm remains rooted in Quebec’s agricultural tradition while embracing values of respect and gratitude for its employees, particularly the temporary foreign workers who make such a significant impact.
The event welcomed 50 workers from five farms, who were treated to a day of celebration that included speeches, cultural activities, and a special ceremony recognizing long-serving employees. Workers who had completed over 15 years of service were awarded certificates for their dedication. For many, it was the first time they had received such recognition, and the gesture deeply resonated.
The Jamaican Appreciation Day was organized with the support of the Jamaica Liaison Service, which oversees the welfare of Jamaican workers participating in the Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program (SAWP). Mr. Orville McIntosh, senior liaison officer at the Jamaica Liaison Service, spoke about the importance of such events, saying, “Our role is dedicated to the seasonal agricultural Jamaican farm workers. Anything that concerns their welfare, we are responsible for.” He explained that the initiative was part of a broader effort by Jamaica’s Ministry of Labor to strengthen relationships between workers, employers, and industry stakeholders.
The SAWP allows farms like Production Lareault to hire temporary foreign workers (TFWs) when local labor is unavailable. Workers recruited through the program receive housing, health insurance, and private insurance for non-work-related issues. These protections, along with events like Jamaican Appreciation Day, help combat negative stereotypes surrounding temporary foreign workers and emphasize the vital role they play in Quebec’s agriculture.
For Andrea Borodenko, the event was an opportunity to highlight the farm’s commitment to its workers, both local and foreign. “Temporary foreign workers have such a positive impact on the agricultural industry,” she said. “We wanted to make sure they feel valued, not just as employees, but as part of the family here at Production Lareault.” The day featured traditional Jamaican cuisine, music, and speeches from community leaders, including members of the Jamaican Association of Montreal, adding a rich cultural flavor to the festivities.
The day also included a trivia segment with gift cards for workers who answered questions correctly, fostering a sense of camaraderie among the participants. It was a lively and engaging way to wrap up a day that celebrated not just the history of Production Lareault but also the invaluable contributions of the men and women who help sustain Quebec’s agricultural industry year after year.
“The aim is to strengthen the relationship between the liaison service, farmers, employers like Andrea, and industry partners. It’s about building a community where everyone’s role is recognized and valued,” McIntosh said.
The success of this event marked the beginning of a new tradition at Production Lareault, one that honors the hard work of those who help sustain Quebec’s agricultural sector year after year.
