New work permits far outweigh job losses – Premier Smith
“…beyond the new job prospects from new businesses, evidence suggests that traditionally the number of new work permits being issued far outweigh job losses,” Premier Smith told the House in his address titled 'Towards Stability and Growth'.
“Empirical evidence seems to suggest that indeed there is a supply of jobs that needs to be filled in the Territory,” Premier Smith added.
Although a wave of job losses had hit the Territory recently, the Finance Minister, who expressed concern over the situation, rejected notions that these were related to any weaknesses experienced by the economy.
Instead, he suggested that organisations were largely responsible for the job losses in their quest to become more efficient.
“I am aware that these job losses and other changes within businesses are being frequently pointed to as evidence of the weakness of the economy as this is a basic indicator used to measure economic strength. However, in many of the cases here in the BVI, these actions were based on the relevant organisations’ quest to become more efficient, not a failing BVI economy.”
Job creation efforts
Dr. Smith noted that his Government pledges to do everything within its power to facilitate the reintegration of persons into the work force, as well as, to create new jobs.
He added that energies would be focused on creating meaningful jobs for Virgin Islanders so that they can have long term employment security and pursue meaningful careers.
According to the Premier, this will positively boost their sense of pride and affect the quality of life they and their families will have in addition to promoting economic development.
Premier Smith further reported that persons who have lost jobs are being re-absorbed into the job market, even within Government itself. He credited much of the re-absorption to the positive efforts of his administration.
He expressed confidence that there will be greater resilience in the job market and said this confidence arises in part from the major infrastructural projects that have been selected to positively affect economic growth.
“These projects will provide jobs in the short and long term and facilitate skills transfer and training to our people that will enhance their employability,” Dr Smith stated.
21 Responses to “New work permits far outweigh job losses – Premier Smith”
expat and whites Wouldn't Expat just have covered all the colours? Or did you need to poke the prejudice button? Pretty disgusting really, agree with your point but really hate how you went about making it! Bigot.
Who looking out for we buddy?