An M.O.U. should ensure Bermudians claim 50% of Fairmont Southampton jobs upon reopening – but it could cause turbulence for hospitality employers
Half of the Fairmont Southampton Hotel’s staff must be Bermudian when it’s doors reopen…that’s the agreement Government is set to sign with the iconic resort.
…but the total impact on the local jobs market could exceed, or possibly fail to reach, any thresholds set by Government.
It is also likely to create some disturbance among employers.
As already reported, the hotel’s reopening comes at a time when our unemployment rate is low, potentially creating competition between hospitality employers to secure local talent… or even to lure Bermudians back home from overseas.
Furthermore, Fairmont Southampton is already looking to outsource certain services and – outside of statutory Immigration requirements – those external partners will not be subject to the hotel owners’ obligations regarding the proportion of Bermudian staff.
This is also the case regarding a future tax rebate promised to this and another hotel, in exchange for employing Bermudians.
This week, Gary Foster Skelton spoke this week with Labour and Economy Minister Jason Hayward about the opportunities at the Fairmont Southampton.
WATCH the report above…
