Two Bermudians were recognised this week after they completed training to become the island’s newest butchers.

Malcolm O'Mara and Kamesh Wilkinson began the first part of a two-year apprenticeship butcher training programme in June 2022.

They were among a cohort of six who successfully completed a meat fabrication course, offered as part of culinary arts programmes by the Government in partnership with the Bermuda College.

Jason Hayward, the Minister of Economy and Labour, said the initiative was geared at providing training, development and employment opportunities to Bermudians in an industry where the workforce has been traditionally dominated by work permit holders.

He said by October 2022, Mr O'Mara and Mr Wilkinson demonstrated advanced butchery skills and knowledge suitable for retail butchers, in-store supermarket butchers, or processing butchers at Lindo's Family Foods.

The duo completed a British Food and Drink Qualification course, which covered practical butchery, knife sharpening, storage of goods, orders, food safety, and health and safety.

“The FDQ's butchery apprenticeship programme is recognised for its high standard, and it offers an end point assessment service, ensuring that the apprentices receive an internationally recognised qualification,” Mr Hayward said.

He said throughout the two-year programme, the duo continued their learning of butchery techniques at an international standard.

They also studied the FDQ's proficiency in meat and poultry industry skills qualifications.

Mr Hayward added: “The culmination of this extensive training, both locally and overseas, led to Malcolm and Kamesh receiving the End Point Assessment Organisation and Qualification Certification.

“This achievement directly results from the successful collaboration between local and international partners and subject matter experts.”

He said discussions with key stakeholders and industry professionals will continue to support and expand training, career development, and employment opportunities.

This will build “a robust talent pool” of young Bermudians for the “high-demand” occupation, he added.

Mr Hayward thanked local training providers and industry stakeholders as well as the staff and team at the Lindo's Family Foods butcher departments, where the two butchers are employed.