over the past six months.

The results will be used by Government and the Chamber when economic policy decisions are needed.

It aims to determine the numbers of filled jobs and the scope of occupations in the job market.

More than 100 Chamber of Commerce members have been asked to fill in the survey document. Information will be treated with confidentiality.

The questionnaire includes information about seasonal layoffs and redundancy so the Government can assess the impact of the recession locally.

Executive vice president of the Chamber of Commerce Ms Carolyn Mello said: "The Chamber plays a major role in developing economic policy. Research is a vital part of the process and will provide the Chamber with the information needed to make decisions which will direct and influence the future economic growth of our Island.

"The form is designed to update the Manpower Survey and provide us with half-year look at changes in the work force.

"As in the Manpower Survey, this information is a useful business indicator and will provide the Chamber, Government and the Employment Task Force with up-to-date information about changes in the workforce.

"The survey is being sent to over 100 Chamber members, representing a cross-section of the business community.''