Abbotsford's agricultural accommodation: an examination of foreign agricultural work living accommodation in Abbotsford, British Columbia

This study evaluates the state of agricultural housing accommodation in Abbotsford, British Columbia for migrant seasonal workers entering Canada under the Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program (SAWP). The study examines whether enough quality housing exists for Seasonal Agricultural Workers (SAW) using data collected from Citizenship and Immigration Canada and the City of Abbotsford. Based on a provincial standard of 7.44m2 of living space per SAW, the study finds a shortage in quality housing for SAW between 2005 and 2007, with the problem at least temporarily abating in 2008. After evaluating a number of policy alternatives, the study proposes the City of Abbotsford include the living space requirement detailed in provincial migrant worker housing guidelines in zoning bylaws 210.10 and 220.10. Inclusion of the requirements in city bylaws will ensure that each worker hired by a farm operator be provided with the minimum 7.44m2 of living space.