Record jobs fair turnout amid tough times

Record numbers of Bermudians descended upon Fairmont Hamilton Princess today in search of a job.

The Bermuda Hotel Association (BHA) attracted ‘by far the largest turnout’, which is said to be a sign of the struggling economy.

At least 250 Bermudians filled the Princess Rooms at the hotel the day before the National budget waiting to fill out applications at the various vendor stalls.

Representative from Fourways, Elbow Beach, Bermuda College, Grotto Bay, Newstead, The Reefs and both Fairmont hotels manned booths, answering questions and helping ­potential employees fill out applications.

De-Von Rogers, 29, a ­former construction worker said: “I definitely need a job right now. I’m bored at home.

“I need a job to take care of my family.

“I did construction but I can do hospitality. I’m a real down to earth person.”

Second job

Jaynay Dillas, 26, works for Financial Aid but is looking for a second job.

“There are a lot of jobs that people don’t have. I know with a lot of people, there’s part-time employment and people are looking for full time.

“Employers are also ­looking for qualifications and experience.

“It’s not just where they can give a person a chance and teach them anymore.”

Kim Wilson, Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry, spoke about the numbers of people turning out

“I think that people might say that the number of ­participants would suggest the level of success but I’m going to measure success by how many people walk out of here with work.”

Asking if the large turnout was an indicator of the economy, Sen. Wilson said: “It’s an indicator but I don’t want to use that as the only indicator.

“Some people are looking for a second job. They may have some second form of employment.

“I’m impressed by the fact that people have come prepared with their ­resumés, dressed for ­success.”

John Harvey, president of the BHA said the turnout was the largest for the fair.

“We have them every year and this is by far the largest turnout.

“We’re very encouraged. Let’s hope we can fill as many jobs as we can.”

Asked how this fair made the economy in Bermuda look, Chris Furbert, president of the Bermuda Industrial Union (BIU) said: “It doesn’t look that good for the economy but we have known for a while now that there’s 1,500 to 2,000 people unemployed.

‘To see this turnout is a good thing because it looks like people really want to get a job.

“At one time, the Minister (Kim Wilson) said she wasn’t sure people were ­applying for jobs but this is a positive sign.”

Mr. Furbert also said once the hospital project begins, that will provide construction work and if one other major project starts, that too will create jobs.