Michael Fahy has thanked the public for their feedback on the draft work permit policy.

The Minister of Home Affairs has stated that the new draft policy, which was released on October 1, is designed to encourage investment and lead to job growth.

He maintained that certain permit categories will require training programmes to be in place along with opportunities for Bermudians.

And he said that short term work permits will not be issued without advertising in most circumstances.

“There are a number of exciting changes within this new policy which the Government believes will encourage investment but will also lead to job growth and opportunities for Bermudians,” Mr Fahy said.

“The revision was undertaken to keep Bermuda current in an ever-changing, highly competitive world and show we are indeed open for business.

“The aim of these policy changes is to help turn around the economy in ways that benefit Bermudians directly and indirectly, to cut red tape, to make the system more user friendly and transparent and to provide new training and career opportunities for Bermudians.”

The submissions will now be reviewed for possible inclusion in the new policy, which should come into effect on December 1.