Barbadians leaving jobs for foreigners to grab, says Minister

The large number of work permit applications for artisans by employers in Barbados are a clear indication that more Barbadians need to be trained as skilled workers. This is the view of Minister of Labour Dr.Esther Byer-Suckoo.
“I am not against companies obtaining work permits to bring people to work here, but Barbadians must be trained to take up those opportunities and fill the gaps where they exist,Suckoo says.
The minister adds that there must be greater scrutiny in relation to the issuing of work permits to help identify the deficiencies that exist in the workforce.
Suckoo is making a call for companies to partner with the Ministry of Labour in their apprenticeship scheme to give students in-call class training which allows them to gain practical work experience before they enter the workforce.