By Shermain Bique-Charles
The first leg of a memorandum of understanding signed between Royal Caribbean Cruises and Tourism Minister Charles Fernandez will get underway this weekend with a major job fair to recruit hundreds of Antiguans and Barbudans.
The initiative is expected to offer an array of cruise tourism jobs to nationals, such as desk attendants, engineers and medical personnel.
Policy Specialist at the Ministry of Tourism and Investment, Simone Richards, told Observer that a number of residents have already expressed interest and signed up for the fair to be held from July 4-7.
“They will be looking for just everyone from 18 years and older to work in areas, so many areas –nurses, casino, guest services, the restaurant — they need a lot of workers,” she said.
Richards said the ministry is optimistic that people of all ages will take advantage of the initiative.
“We are hopeful that they will grab the opportunity. It is a good opportunity to close the unemployment gap. The contracts are from anywhere between six to 12 months.
“They have said 40 percent of their business comes from this region and they are hoping to ensure their staff reflects that,” Richards said.
“It is not just for the young; it’s for all age groups. They don’t age discriminate. Even if a person is 60 and is able-bodied and they want to apply, then they can apply.
“We encourage people to register online to get their appointments early. If you walk in then you will have to wait for those who have pre-registered to get through,” she said.
Holders of valid Antigua and Barbuda passports can apply during the recruitment drive being held at the Multipurpose Cultural Centre at Perry Bay from 9am to 4pm each day.
The initial three days will be used for the screening of prospective candidates, while the final two days will be used to interview the most suitable candidates.
Selected positions may be offered on the spot during the recruitment drive, however, candidates must successfully complete a medical evaluation and be fully vaccinated or have begun the vaccination process.
All interested persons should complete preliminary online registration at https://forms.gle/gV2svbBMpMo1utHh7.