The ongoing wildfires in British Columbia’s Interior have prompted the evacuation of hundreds of migrant workers from farms, causing strain on already crowded housing units. This has raised concerns about unsafe working conditions and the impact of smoky air on the workers’ health. Byron Cruz, a member of the Migrant Rights Network, has been organizing evacuation and relief efforts in the area. He estimates that around 600 migrant workers have been evacuated in the Okanagan region, with an additional 80 workers unable to go home due to airport closures.
Cruz highlighted the overcrowded living conditions and lack of food for some of the workers who had to leave their farms immediately. Various organizations have been providing food to these workers, as shopping has become difficult for them. The responsibility for accommodation is unclear, and workers are being placed in already precarious housing situations.
Non-profit organization MOSAIC has been working closely with agricultural and migrant workers who have been evacuated due to the wildfires. Recently, nine workers, including temporary foreign workers and Canadians, were rescued from the Sorrento area, which has been heavily affected by the fires. MOSAIC reported that although the workers appeared physically well, they were traumatized by having to drive through fire during their evacuation.
In Kelowna, 160 female temporary foreign workers were evacuated to Big White, a nearby ski resort. Many workers in the region have started heading home as the season comes to an end, but some employers are seeking support for their foreign workers. Additionally, 30 workers from El Salvador ran out of money for food and had to rely on activists to provide them with food packets.
While there are no fires in certain parts of British Columbia, the air quality has plummeted to dangerous levels. The poor air pollution has led some workers to refuse to perform unsafe tasks. WorkSafeBC, a government organization responsible for workplace safety, has been contacted and will be visiting farms to talk to both employers and workers about the situation. Employers have a responsibility to protect their workers from smoke exposure and provide clean workspaces.
Cruz emphasized the need to translate government orders into different languages, such as Spanish, to ensure effective communication with workers. He also mentioned that workers need clarity on compensation for the missed days of work.
The ongoing wildfires have displaced over 27,000 residents, with an additional 35,000 on standby for evacuation. This wildfire season is the worst in British Columbia’s history, with over 1.7 million hectares burned, an area three times the size of Prince Edward Island.
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