Economy Minister urged businesses to hire locals.She said they should go to the Department of Labour and Training before the Department of Immigration.“It behooves you as an employer and Bermuda as a whole that you explore the local expertise available on the Island before shifting your search to beyond our shores or seeking to renew work permits,” she said. “A genuine effort is needed.”She added that the work permit process has become more rigorous.“Work permits will only be granted if it is demonstrated that no Bermudian exists with the skill set and experience which is required for the job,” she said.Employers, particularly in the hospitality, construction, and horticultural fields, should contact the Department of Labour and Training.Employers who are not happy with the person they employ via the Department should report back so they can work with the employee and train them in areas they are weak.Ms Wilson reiterated that Bermudians must stop thinking certain jobs are beneath them. Last month, Ms Wilson revealed that only three locals applied for 13 kitchen porter positions.Yesterday she said one hotel reported that there were zero applicants for waiters.“Now is not the time to reject an employment opportunity just because you are not fully pleased with the salary being offered,” she said.“Bermudians must apply for positions for which they are qualified and where they think they can perform well irrespective of how many times they have done so in the past.“If you fail to do so then the opportunity is lost and your right to complain is greatly diminished.”