The Labour Ministry says there has been a reduction in the number of work permits granted to foreign workers

This was revealed by Labour Minister Shahine Robinson, who disclosed that the ministry has developed a project to modernise the work permit system.

This is part of efforts to meet the employment needs of locals and monitor the required skill set of foreigners seeking permits.

In recent months, concern had been raised about the lack of jobs for locals in the tourism and construction sectors, with claims that overseas investors brought workers from their home country.

Some local companies had also criticised government for not looking to local companies first, for the skills needed for certain projects.

Speaking at a press briefing today (Sep 4) Labour Minister Shahine Robinson said government has taken note of the concerns.

She said the ministry has taken a decision to review all applications, resulting in fewer work permits being granted.

The minister said over one thousand 3 hundred permits were issued for the April to June quarter, about 300 fewer than last year.

Mrs. Robinson said the ministry has a responsibility to maintain a balance between investment and local employment needs.

Meanwhile, the overseas work programme hosted by the Labour Ministry has responded to requests to facilitate more persons seeking employment aboard.

Between January and July, over one thousand additional persons were recruited for overseas jobs.

At a press briefing today, Labour Minister Shahine Robinson said the April to June period recorded a 5.6% increase in placements over last year.

Mrs. Robinson said additional job opportunities in the care and construction industries in the USA are being discussed.