Government has approved about 160 work permits for masons, plumbers and carpenters since taking office, it was revealed in the House of Assembly yesterday.But some 56 tradesmen are looking for work, according to records at the Workforce Development department.Public Safety Minister Michael Dunkley provided the statistics in written answers to questions submitted by Shadow Home Affairs Minister Walter Roban.A total of 164 masons are on work permits — 50 of those were approved prior to January this year, Mr Dunkley said.Another 30 plumbers (of which 17 were approved last year) are on work permits as are 55 carpenters (23 of which date to last year).Registered unemployed at the Department of Workforce Development include 33 masons, nine plumbers and 14 carpenters (eight carpenters and joiners and six form carpenters).