Members of the Bermuda Professional Photographers Association were up in arms yesterday after learning that a foreign photographer has been awarded a fast-track work permit to shoot a brochure for the Fairmount Hamilton Princess - although no Bermudians were given the opportunity to apply for the job.

According to Association member Graeme Outerbridge, a letter was written on May 30 to Labour and Home Affairs Minister Terry Lister requesting the permit be processed as soon as possible. Mr. Outerbridge claimed that he had a copy of the actual letter, but was unable to get it to The Royal Gazette by press time.

He said that the Association was very concerned that the Minister would proceed in such a manner.

"The Minister of Tourism goes out of his way to ensure that Bermudians are given a chance, yet the Minister of Labour seems very sneaky," he said.

Marshall DeCouto, who is also an Association member was outraged at the incident. He it was not the first time that it had occurred, and in the past the group has met with Immigration officials to implore that the proper procedures for work permits be followed.

"If there are any objections, they should be reviewed and then a consultation should be given."

The twenty-year photography veteran, who has worked on several Tourism projects and for major travel magazines such as Country Living and Travel and Leisure, said that members knew nothing of the Hamilton Princess assignment.

"We have the local talent," he said. "Yet we are treated like we have the inability to do these types of jobs."

Professional photographer Roland Skinner, echoed the sentiments.

"We're not given a fair chance - that's our biggest complaint," he said. "This has been going on for a number of years. I don't understand it."

Fairmount Hamilton Princess' general manager Paul Tormey refused to comment and chief immigration officer Dr. Martin Brewer would not confirm nor deny the allegations yesterday.