Businesses could be adversely affected by an extended moratorium on work permits for certain jobs, according to the Chamber of Commerce.President Stephen Todd said the three-month ban on foreign hiring for jobs such as skilled labourers, landscape gardeners and cleaners, would result in the position being temporarily filled by a Bermudian.But once the economy improves, there is a possibility that people could return to their preferred careers and employers could be left with the lengthy burden of looking for overseas workers to fill the position, he said.“If you recently lost your job as a receptionist or tradesman in plumbing or some other trade would that individual be willing to take on a position in one of the areas that are available, but was not an area that previously appealed to them?“If it is a stepping stone, short-term interim position, what happens when the economy improves and that person leaves the job and the employer is left with having to fill that position and are not able to get that person in [immediately] because of immigration regulations?“That could have an adverse effect on their day to day operations and productivity efficiency,” he said.Last week Economy Minister Kim Wilson said permit submissions for jobs like kitchen and bar porters, housekeepers, masons and carpenters would be on hold, and future submissions denied, to ensure Bermudians were given first priority.She pointed out that the number of redundancies was growing and said it was important to ensure a stable and healthy society where people could work to provide for their basic needs.Mr Todd said the move demonstrated to the wider public that these positions can be filled by willing Bermudians. But he said it could have negative effects if it’s not something the individuals are prepared to do long-term.He said that there is no simple solution but the Chamber is prepared to work with Government to ensure the best possible outcome and prevent disruption in the labour force.Executive director of Bermuda Employers’ Council Martin Law said the moratorium would restrict employers’ hiring choices.“It is never good when government puts hiring restrictions on employers’ hiring choices but we do understand the Minister’s desire to try and secure employment for Bermudians.“She did indicate that she remains open to approaches from employers and we take this to mean that if an employer can make a convincing case to employ a person in a restricted category, she will listen.“She also made it plain that Bermudians need to seek these jobs actively and sincerely. If jobs cannot be filled by Bermudians willing and able to do the job, then businesses will need guest workers to fill them in order to survive.”Mr Law added: “There is a fine line to walk here between keeping businesses functioning properly and helping Bermudians to get work, and we believe that the Minister understands this.”l Useful websites: www.bermudacommerce.com, www.bec.bm