Government is working hard to get Bermudians back to work according to Home Affairs Minister Michael Fahy, but more than 1,800 were unemployed or underemployed as of April 30.

Giving an update on the efforts of the Department of Workforce Development, Sen Fahy said that while there has been “significant commentary” from entities suggesting that the Government is doing nothing, that suggestion is far from the truth.

“While we acknowledge that we would love to see our economic recovery moving at a brisker pace, the fact remains that there are market factors beyond our control that dictate the speed of our recovery.” Sen Fahy said. “However, what is within our control are our efforts to implement short and long term solutions aimed at helping Bermudians navigate through this job market.”

He said that as of the end of last month, just over 1,800 Bermudians were unemployed or underemployed, although that figure fluctuates as some workers lose their jobs and others find employment.

“The majority of unemployed/underemployed are in the service industry — such as general administration, personnel and hospitality,” he said. “We also have many from the construction industry, such as masons and labourers. This is an indication to me that now more than ever, we need to grow our economy and attract more people to the Island so that we can expand our business in order to create jobs.

“Simply put — more people in Bermuda means more jobs.”

The Senator said that almost 400 Bermudians have been involved in various training programmes, including 116 students receiving funding to attend colleges and universities overseas.

He noted the Memorandum of Understanding established between Government and Bermuda College by the previous administration to offer a Retraining Scholarship Fund to help Bermudians tackle fields usually filled by non-Bermudians.

“Work permit data indicates that there are in excess of 400 active work permits for professionally qualified accountants in Bermuda,” Sen Fahy said. “Three certification programmes in accounting were made available with the aim of increasing the number of qualified Bermudians so that they can assume these roles in the local market.

“It is a known fact that there is a global shortage of nurses. And there has been a documented need for Bermudians to enter into this profession. Currently we have 370 work permits for registered nurses. To that end, a two-year Associate of Science in Nursing Degree, designed in partnership with the Department of Workforce Development, the Bermuda College, and the Bermuda Hospital’s Board was implemented.

“The Post-Degree Teacher Certification programme offered by Mount Saint Vincent University in association with Bermuda College is designed for individuals who hold an undergraduate degree and are seeking to meet certification requirements for preschool, elementary and middle school teachers in Bermuda.”

Senator Fahy also said that 1,300 candidates have signed up to the Bermuda Job Board since it was established, along with 314 employers, but urged others who are looking for work to register with the Department.

“It’s important to note that the issues that we face did not happen overnight and they cannot be solved overnight,” he said. “Of equal note, solving our workforce challenges is not something that can be solely done by the Government.

“It will take the collaboration and partnership of the private sector, the unions and most of all the Bermudians who we all serve. I cannot emphasise enough that in order for us to assist, you must not only make yourselves known to us, but you must do your part in taking advantage of the training opportunities available.

“It makes no sense for us to enact these programmes if we are not going to get full participation, so your cooperation is key. And registering with the Department of Workforce Development is a first step.”