Tourism workers facing a bleak off-season have been given a boost with the news that up to 60 jobs will be created at a new eco-resort.

The full-time positions are expected to be available when the new Daniel's Head Village opens in the Spring.

The move will bring cheer to hospitality employees who lost their jobs as the Marriott Castle Harbour resort closed yesterday.

Around 470 were made redundant in total and many will be searching for new positions in the New Year.

Meanwhile, the general manager for the eco-resort in Sandys Parish has been named as Richard Quinn. He will oversee the opening of the project which is due to start construction in a couple of weeks.

Mr. Quinn, a Bermudian, was formerly executive assistant manager at the Reefs in Southampton, having previously worked for the Department of Tourism and Sonesta Beach Hotel.

"The project is a unique opportunity to blend the best Bermuda has to offer in beauty and culture,'' he said.

"This a different kind of vacation experience than Bermuda has ever offered and I am thrilled to be part of this new concept.'' A ground-breaking ceremony is planned for this month, and demolition work will start soon after at the former Canadian base.

The innovative scheme will feature 120 tented cottages, complete with Bermuda style roofs and pastel coloured canvas walls.

There will be a complete range of hotel facilities, with activities highlighting Bermuda's culture and environment. Watersports will also be eco-friendly -- no gas engines.

Destination Village's' $11-million scheme is due to open by late Spring next year.

Vice-president Michael Nelson said Mr. Quinn would provide valuable local knowledge for the development.

"It is important to us that we understand the local way of doing business,'' said Mr. Nelson. "We wanted somebody on board to teach us about doing business in Bermuda. He brings with him over 17 years of management experience as well as great enthusiasm for the goals of this development.'' In addition, Destination Villages' employee Skip Benvie will be project manager until the scheme is complete next year. Mr. Quinn said the new resort was a challenge for him and for Bermuda, bringing an innovative type of accommodation.

"The concept is different. The emphasis is on cultural experiences and activities, being community-minded and taking advantage of what the environment has to offer,'' he said.

Named general manager: Richard Quinn