'Frustrating' that VIslanders not applying or unqualified for simple jobs- Labour Commissioner
Speaking at the BVI Chamber of Commerce (BVICC) members’ meeting at Fischer’s Cove in Virgin Gorda on Friday, July 10, 2026, Hastings said he frequently approves positions he believes Virgin Islanders are capable of filling, only to find few or no local applicants.
“One of the most frustrating things as Labour Commissioner is, on a daily basis, approving entry-level jobs that I know Virgin Islanders are qualified to do, and they are not applying, or they are not qualified for simple little jobs,” he said.
Entry-level jobs
Hastings cited roles such as hotel receptionists, room attendants (making beds), assistant cooks, and first mates on yachts as examples of positions suitable for local workers that remain largely vacant.
He also flagged the absence of basic maritime certification, the Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW), as a barrier for those seeking work on vessels.
He added, “Not only they're not applying for it; they don't see the hospitality sector as a way to enter into the career system.”
To address these gaps, Hastings also proposed establishing a hospitality training institution.
Issues raised
The Chamber meeting, held at Fischer’s Cove, brought together business owners, government representatives, and community leaders for an open discussion on issues affecting the business community.
According to BVICC, several important issues emerged during the meeting. These included the need for additional cross-training within government services on Virgin Gorda so customers can complete transactions more efficiently, particularly where limited staffing creates delays, and updates to the Labour Management System (LMS), including planned notification improvements.
Businesses highlighted that job seekers currently receive no automatic notification when interviews or messages are posted, resulting in missed opportunities. The Labour Department acknowledged this feedback and is working toward enhancements.
There was also a call for valuable discussion around Trade Department grants and business support programmes. Many entrepreneurs shared concerns that the current application process is lengthy and resource-intensive, creating barriers for some small businesses.
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25 Responses to “'Frustrating' that VIslanders not applying or unqualified for simple jobs- Labour Commissioner ”
What are you as an employee bringing to the table to receive more money?
NOTHING!!
But the thing is we locals does still bring down our own and is who you know to get work.
and still have the heart to say ohhh them people coming here to take our jobs.
People all over the world are being offered jobs in the BVI while BV Islanders seeking employment are told by businesses that they do not have vacancies. Just the other day I called DHL in the BVI, and someone answered in Jamaica. She had no clue how to assist because she could not relate. It's all about cheap labour. Labour knows exactly what businesses are doing, and allows it, not that they could do anything. In the BVI it's each one who comes "brings one" and get a bonus.
I finally see two non Asian faces at OneMart! There must be an ulterior motive behind that.
You can't even get land for locals just crazy when you go customs you see down island people there working crazy