Minister wants job permit control

The minister responsible for Guernsey's jobless wants employers to provide more justification before they are given licences for foreign workers.

Deputy Mary Lowe is responding to concerns over the number of people in the island on short-term licences.

Statistics say there are about 1,100 so-called guest workers, mainly working in retail, farming and hospitality.

Deputy Lowe says some of the island's 220 unemployed could be suitable for many of the jobs available.

She said: "We've asked the Housing Department that, until further notice, no more short-term licences are given for retail until we clear those on our books with some form of retail experience.

"We have a responsibility to see that locals are considered first.

"Yes, we do need immigrant workers, but there is a balance needed."