Seasonal fruit pickers soon to arrive in British Columbia’s Okanagan region will face the risk of contracting COVID-19 and the provincial government said it is taking steps to protect them.
All seasonal fruit pickers will be required to take an on-line awareness course about the virus, which is organized through AgSafe, an association that represents B.C. employers and worker organizations. According to a B.C. government news release, the course outlines the rights and responsibilities of workers and employers with regard to the virus.
The provincial government will provide funds to set up designated campsite accommodations for workers that meet health requirements.
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“The province has offered initial support to help ensure the provincial health officer’s requirements are met at Loose Bay campground in Oliver and two camping accommodation sites in Creston,” the release said.
“The Ministry of Agriculture has provided the Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen with $60,000 and the Creston Valley-Kootenay Lake Economic Action Partnership with $112,000 to help support these camping sites with on-site co-ordination and ensure they meet health and safety requirements. Campsite accommodations are also currently being explored in Summerland, Osoyoos, Naramata and the Similkameen.”
Workers have to complete the on-line course before they can stay at the campsites. The AgSafe course is in English and French and will be distributed by the B.C. Agricultural Council and B.C. Fruit Growers Association to their members, said the news release.
Temporary fruit pickers are designated as an essential service because they are part of the food supply system. They are needed to help harvest the cherries, berries, grapes and apples that grow in the region.
