Hundreds of hopeful applicants attended an event that aimed to put 100 islanders to work.

Job hunters descended on the Hamilton Seventh-day Adventist Church yesterday to meet representatives from dozens of local firms in need of employees.

It was part of the 100 Jobs initiative unveiled by Wayne Caines, Minister of National Security, earlier this month.

Mr Caines said that about 50 or 60 business were present, from sectors including construction, hospitality and finance.

He said that meetings had been held with the potential employers ahead of the event.

Mr Caines said of the job candidates: “The employers know that they might need a little mentorship, a second chance, or might have a chequered past.

“Everyone realised that if we are indeed to make it as a country, we have to be there to create and make opportunities available to everyone.”

Mr Caines said that there were two groups of people present looking for work.

He said one group was compromised of 150 persons who had already been vetted and provided with job skills by Workforce Development. Mr Caines explained: “We’ve made sure they’re ready for today.”

He added the second group of potential employees had yet to begin the vetting process.

Mr Caines said: “After all the vetted people have gone, there might still be some opportunities. We’re not going to turn them away. And they can actually start the process today.”

Mr Caines described the event as a “catalyst” and described connecting businesses in need with able-bodied workers as “low-hanging fruit”.

He added: “We’re looking to give people some opportunities. What we want is for people to put their best foot forward.”

He said today’s event would be analysed to see what worked well and where there was room for improvement ahead of the next, planned for September.

Mr Caines added: “All of this is still a work in progress.”