Work permits for heads of companies are likely to cost the business community more than those granted to staff lower down the ladder as the Government looks at introducing a graduated fee structure.

Minister of Immigration David Burch spoke at the Chamber of Commerce's Annual General Meeting yesterday and told business leaders they will have to be patient while the Department gets its affairs in order, and may have to pay more after changes are made.

The Minister said only 10 people, including a manager, are in charge of processing work permits. These individuals were unable to cope with the demand, which saw 9,599 work permits processed in 2007.

"Clearly, with the number of staff mentioned earlier — staffing resources are insufficient to meet the demand," he said. "Recruiting new staff is well under way and interviews are being conducted this week."

The Minister outlined that under his watch a night shift had been established to clear the backlog of immigration applications and allow the day staff to concentrate on current applications. Incomplete applications have also been returned to companies and individuals. He also pointed to a new automated system which will speed up the process and be in use within the year.

"Having said that though — you will be aware that many of the changes implemented above come with a cost," he said. "Costs that in my view should be borne by those utilising the service. As such I give early notice that the age-old practice of a CEO work permit costing the same as a gardener's is likely to end and graduated fees introduced."

The Minister also addressed concerns that work permit limits, which were introduced in 2001, were not in the best interests of Bermuda and admonished companies for sending in unnecessary applications.

"Term limits are here to stay but their application will be fair and in accordance with that policy," he said. "It is right that I share with you, however, those applications for the pot washer or the kitchen porter to be exempt from term limits as a 'key employee' hardly assist in your cause that the arguments against term limits be seriously considered. It is precisely that kind of abuse that aided in creating the mess we have today."

And the Minister said companies and individuals should no longer expect special treatment. He blamed the current problems of the Immigration Department on a historical "regime that was based on personality and pure subjectivity" and claimed in the past "certain immigrant communities" were granted status based on what clubs they joined or who they partied with.

"With a system based on patronage and such subjectivity, only injustice and eventually chaos can result," he stated.

He added that he would not accept lunch or dinner invitations because he believed business should be conducted in offices to ensure the rules are applied "fairly and squarely, across the board" and ensure that Bermudians' rights are protected.