The training overseas of 17 Bermudian men as drywall mechanics was announced by Economy Minister Patrice Minors, as “an initiative deserving of public recognition”.Ms Minors said Government had “come under increasing criticism of late from some sectors of the community that we’re not doing enough to assist those find gainful employment”.She added: “Quite simply, that’s a myth.”The Drywall Training Programme was launched “several weeks ago, in partnership with the Construction Association of Bermuda”.All but one of the 17 have secured gainful employment.The 17 got certified through an intensive course at the Construction Education Foundation of Georgia, she said.Drywaller Jahzeel Quallo, who works with Greymane Contracting, said the group had signed contracts prior to leaving with the different companies they now worked for.Mr Quallo added: “The course was indeed helpful, in all aspects of construction — safety, leadership and communication as well.”Ms Minors called it an example of Government standing up for Bermudians.She said it would also cut down on work permits for “the two major construction projects” by the Bermuda Hospitals Board, and at the former Waterloo House site.Asked when Government planned to open its One Stop Career Centre — designed to assist the Island’s job seekers — Ms Minors said the facility should take over the former Magistrates’ Court premises by January of next year.