WILLEMSTAD - Following the announcement that there is a scarcity of chefs, in particular chef / sous-chef and manager / supervisor of restaurants, the Curaçao Restaurant Association (CRA) held conversations with the Ministry of Social Development, Labor and Welfare (SOAW) to see how the process for permits for professionals from abroad can be accelerated. At the same time, the union representing hospitality workers, Horecaf says that personnel must be searched locally.
Due to the difference of opinions, a meeting took place between CRA and Horecaf. In the conversation, CRA made it clear that the need for the sector is high and a solution will have to be found in the short term. Given that tourism has become an important pillar, it is important to guarantee quality and continuation of this sector. The Horecaf representatives say they understand the situation.
In addition, ideas were exchanged, not just on behalf of the owners of restaurants, but also on behalf of the hospitality industry. These ideas are related to how developments in the sector can be supported. When both parties responded to this, there can be a better contribution to the service in the sector.
The CRA has since launched a training program for restaurant managers and is developing a program for staff in the service sector. The representatives also spoke about the current possibilities in education. There will be a good inventory of needs from the sector and the connection thereto. In particular, training for chefs, which fall short to be able to meet the local demands.