Several expats are leaving the island because of policies concerning work permits. They hold important positions in our tourist industry. Others are being denied permits.

We were just getting things accomplished and establishing some great working relationships to make things better. We were then hit with a global meltdown.

We must rely on the management leadership in place to hold on and steer us to a profitable position. Then unexpectedly we create a situation of uneasiness and uncertainty. This even effects the local talent under their watch.

The owners and operators of tourist related business are already scratching their heads to find solutions and avenues to "hold on" during this recession. The last thing they need is the pressure of losing key people who either own, run, hire, or manage the very life blood of Anguilla.

There is a reason these establishments are doing well and it's the key people who keep these machines well oiled. This is no time to create situations that put additional stress on an already stressful economy or stressed business.

I'm afraid that we will be putting companies out of business if we are not proactive in stimulating this small economy. We don't want to see an exodus of business because they make a sizeable contribution to our community.

No one can deny the success of so many hotels who have the advantage of experienced and well trained people from all parts of the world. They understand the market and how to motivate staff to service that market. Most hotels hire experienced staff from outside our own workforce because of their experience.

If you remove them from the mix you are sure to have a batter that won't rise. Where success is proven, there is no justification for upsetting the recipe that is already a success.

It has always been the option for the owners to decide about permit renewals. The Government's responsibilities are to review them so that the individuals meet the standards for those renewals but not arbitrarily deny them or decide for the business operator who is the best choice for his operation. Let's concentrate on ways of getting more talent and business started that will generate more of what was already successful. Not destroy what is working.

A happy proprietor.

| Printer-friendly page | Send this article to a friend |

World News