burden on a struggling tourism industry, it has been claimed.

Hotel bosses believe the new law, which is due to be debated by the Senate today, could lead to more red tape for owners and could create flashpoints during industrial difficulties.

And the Hotel Employers of Bermuda have hit out at the Government for forcing through the Trade Union Amendment Act, paying scant regard to their views on the subject.

But an organisation aiming to lure middle managers into its ranks, the Bermuda Managers Association, has welcomed the move which they say could be beneficial to management and owners.

The bill went through on a vote, but was criticised by Opposition MPs, who believe it could burden employers and frighten off overseas investment.

HEB chief executive John Harvey, speaking on behalf of many Island general managers and owners, said he was disappointed the Government had brought the legislation forward at a time when they were facing many challenges already.

"It could be a backwards step for tourism,'' he said."We have not had an opportunity to sit with the Minister (Paula Cox) and share our concerns.

"We don't know what the fall-out is going to be.

"Let's stop and have a look at how the industry is developing. We have to focus on our working relationship with the Bermuda Industrial Union and get some of these issues resolved first before we are challenged with other things -- the timing is awful.'' Mr. Harvey predicted possible problems for hotels, where staff loyalty could be put to the test during industrial disputes -- putting management under pressure to support their fellow union members or to run the gauntlet and stay dedicated to their posts.

"They could all walk off the job together,'' he said.

And, he added, the ability to discipline employees could be hindered by a manager's and worker's joint membership of an association.

But Anthony Santucci, spokesman for the Bermuda Managers Association, said he believed the Act is good news for employees who will have the opportunity to be represented if they wish.

He said collective bargaining of 3,000 people could improve efficiency and reduce costs for hotels.

It was important, he said, that both groups looked at the positive aspects of membership and not the possible negative scenarios.

New law sparks tourism fears "We are excited and hope it is going to pass the Senate,'' he said. "It is going to facilitate smoother operating for all hotels.

"Instead of dealing with 3,000 people, they will have the luxury of dealing with one association -- that is good for everybody.

"If we are positive and proactive, then there is no need for strike scenarios to occur. Our objective is to work together to achieve a mutual benefit.'' It is understood that the BIU and Managers Association have already been canvassing potential members, and some believe there could also be conflict if two different groups were representing management.

Southampton Princess operations analyst Mr. Santucci, who said his organisation had several hundred members and was looking for a "natural growth process'', dismissed that claim.

"We can both represent. There is no conflict,'' he said.

And he added that his employer would now have to change its position, which previously was one of non-recognition for the Managers Association, to account for the change in law.

"Canadian Pacific Hotels, like most hotel companies, abide by the laws of the country. They will abide by the laws like everybody else.'' In April, Southampton Princess general manager Norm Mastalir said the hotel did not recognise the Association. He said they did not feel "it was a positive move''.