Chef Shortage Recognised by Government

15 December 2004

Chef Shortage Recognised by Government

The Hospitality Association is very pleased that the Minister of Immigration Hon Paul Swain, has responded positively to calls from industry regarding staff shortages, says Chief Executive Bruce Robertson.

The Association put forward strong submissions jointly with the Hospitality Standards Institute and the NZ Hotel Council. The submissions recommended that Chef and Hospitality Supervisor positions be added to the Immediate Skill Shortage List (formerly the Occupational Shortages List). Announcements made by the Workforce Group of the Department of Labour (Immigration) earlier this week indicated these positions had been accepted as suitable to add to the shortages list.

“We’re delighted with the Department of Labour’s response to our submissions,” says Bruce Robertson. The hospitality industry has been facing difficulties in recruiting and retaining staff, particularly at chef and supervisory level, for sometime now. This move will certainly help ease the situation for our members.

“The announcements couldn’t have come at a better time as we’re rapidly approaching the busy tourist season. The Lion’s Tour next year is likely to put more pressure on the staffing situation for the hospitality and tourism sectors so this move by the Department is to be congratulated,” he said.

ENDS

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