Representatives from various businesses last week interviewed the specially challenged for possible employment.

During the Department of Labour and Training's "Job Opportunities for the Specially Challenged'' workshop on Monday, 12 specially challenged individuals showed some 35 prospective employers their resumes.

Labour Minister Quinton Edness opened the workshop at the Labour and Training Department on Reid Street by welcoming and congratulating the companies who chose to participate.

"It is often said that the character of a country is shown by how the government and the community take care of their most vulnerable people, in this case the specially challenged,'' Mr. Edness said. "I hope this idea of employing these people grows from strength to strength.'' With his message taken to heart, the company representatives then mingled with their potential employees to discuss resumes and future job opportunities.

Department of Labour and Training's Specially Challenged Employment Officer Gilda Furbert told employers the specially challenged were "even more committed and reliable'' than regular employees.

"We want employers to open their doors because the specially challenged are people too,'' she stressed.

"Once you employ them, you will have a very committed and reliable person working for you. They make time and they are very concerned about the jobs they are assigned to.'' Pearman Watlington personnel officer Phil Copeland said his company has a few specially challenged people as employees.

He explained: "Everybody has a place in society and if a specially challenged person is capable of doing a job, they should be hired for it.'' Bermuda Industrial Union education officer Colin Simmons agreed.

"As human beings they deserve to enter the workplace on a level that is comparable to others,'' Mr. Simmons said. "They have skills and, given the opportunity, they can demonstrate them.'' Wendy Salvia of MEF Enterprises added: "People who are challenged appreciate the opportunity to work and they make excellent employees.'' Potential employee Eloise Matthie, who married a Bermudian and moved to the Island from the US three years ago, was eager to talk with future employers.

"I am just looking for a door to open,'' she said. "I have been here for three years, but my door has not yet opened.

"I can do clerical work, sales, or I can work with senior citizens. I can do a lot more, but that is just experience-wise.'' "Because I haven't gotten a chance I sometimes ask myself, `What is wrong with me?','' she added. "Before I came here I always had a job and I'm hoping someone will give me a chance.''