Minister of Labour Dion A Foulkes recently met with officials from Carnival Cruise Lines, as the Government looks to partner with the company to increase Bahamian employment.

The government is hoping to finalise an agreement with Carnival soon that will enable trained and qualified Bahamians to get employment with the luxury cruise line.

In June, Minister Foulkes toured Carnival’s training centre in Miami and said he was “impressed” with the facilities.

The discussions follow last month’s announcement that Royal Caribbean Cruises has committed to hiring 200 Bahamians this year. Around 50 are already at work, taking up positions such as baristas, cleaners, sailors and pastry chef trainees.

“The Bahamas continues to enjoy a very favourable relationships with the major cruise lines such as Royal Caribbean and Carnival, which each year bring thousands of visitors and tourists to our beautiful shores,” said Foulkes.