A directive from newly installed Bahamian Prime Minister, stipulates that Bahamians must fill all available posts before any consideration is given to foreigners.
In fact, the Minister of Labour made it clear that he has already been “very strict” in approving labour certificates for work permits and has denied or deferred several applications since taking office just over two weeks ago. The Prime Minister has given directions to ensure that no foreigner gets a permit where there is a Bahamian available to do the job. Noting the Bahamas has “a serious unemployment problem,” Foulkes was adamant there would be no backing down from implementing the policy.