Wilson: We need to work harder at getting Bermudians employed

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 21: Minister Kim Wilson today announced changes would be made to the Department of Labour and Training to help Bermudians find work.

In a press statement, she said: “As a direct result of the current economic downturn many people are out of work.

“Being a responsible government, we have determined that we need to work harder to assist these people in becoming employed.

“We need to work with employers more closely because it is in everyone’s best interest to employ more Bermudians.”

She continued: “We recognise that our role in employing Bermudians is critical to the sustainability of our country.

“There is a need to educate and help people adapt to the new realities of the Bermuda economy and the employment opportunities that are available.

“Our role is to assist job-seeking individuals to make the transition to the new economic circumstances.”

The statement said in the coming months the NTB Act 1997 would be amended to expand its scope.

The Board will assume responsibility for the strategic direction of the department, to include all of the units under the restructured area, including training and certification, labour relations and job placement.

Additionally, it will exercise general supervision of the affairs, purposes and functions of the one-stop career centre.

“I expect that the composition of the National Training Board will also be expanded to ensure inclusion and representation from all of the relevant occupation groups as well as persons with expertise in business operations and labour relations matters”, the Minister added.