The organisations cites collaboration on workforce challenges
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The Bermuda Chamber of Commerce issued the following media release.
The Hospitality Summit hosted by the Ministry of Labour, through the Department of Workforce Development (DWD) marked an important and constructive step in uniting stakeholders from Bermuda’s hotel and restaurant sectors, alongside representatives from Government and labour unions.
Jennifer Woods, Chief Executive Officer of the Bermuda Chamber of Commerce, and Marico Thomas, Chairman of the Chamber’s Board, were invited to deliver a joint presentation with fellow industry stakeholders. Their remarks focused on sector-wide hospitality trends, including recruitment, retention, skills development, the broader workforce outlook, and the shared challenges facing both hotels and restaurants-supported by data drawn directly from Chamber membership. Valued Chamber Member representatives Philip Barnett, President of the Island Restaurant Group Ltd. and Teresa Chatfield, Owner/ Director of the MEF Bermuda shared timely industry perspectives.
The purpose of the Summit was clear: to convene a broad cross-section of voices around a common objective-addressing current employment pressures and industry requirements so Bermuda is better positioned to serve both residents and visitors effectively.
The timing of this dialogue is significant. With the anticipated reopening of the Fairmont Southampton, combined with ongoing strain on the local workforce, it is evident that thoughtful, forward-looking workforce strategies must be considered to meet demand responsibly and sustainably.
What distinguished this session was the willingness of participants to engage candidly and respectfully. Bringing industry, Government, and labour representatives together in the same room fostered transparency, allowed concerns to be properly acknowledged, and moved the discussion beyond isolated debate toward practical consideration of solutions.
Minister Jason Hayward is to be commended for convening a productive forum centered on collaboration and tangible outcomes. The Chamber remains committed to working in partnership with the Ministry to ensure labour policies reflect present-day realities while strengthening long-term opportunities for Bermudians within the hospitality sector.
