Sylvan Richards, the Junior Minister for Home Affairs, has revealed that there have been more than 500 applications for Bermudian status this year.

Responding to Parliamentary questions in the House of Assembly this morning, Mr Richards said that 510 applications were submitted in 2014 as of November 10 under Section 20B of the Bermuda Immigration and Protection Act 1956. Comparatively, two applications were made in both 2013 and 2012, while no applications were made in 2011.

Asked how many Bermudian status certificates were granted under that section, Mr Richards stated that 15 had been issued this year, as of November 10, while none had been issued in the previous three years.

He also responded to questions on what job categories are currently closed for work permits, saying that closed categories include airline ground agent, floor supervisor, general labourer, office receptionist, painter, salesperson, tourist retail salesperson, taxi driver, wallpaper technitian, grocery packer, cashier and courier.

Asked specifically about bartenders, Mr Richards said the category was restricted as opposed to closed.