The Tribune

THE Mediterranean Shipping Company, in conjunction with the government, has committed to invest in the local training and hiring of a total of 220 Bahamian crew members this year.

“Presently, there is a need for crew members on board MSC cruise ships, globally, in the areas of food and beverage, housekeeping, guest services, entertainment, crew cleaning and the Photo Shop,” Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) noted in a press release.

“Hence, the creation of the cruise ship employment initiative. Through collaboration with MSC, the government has fulfilled its promise to the Bahamian people to deepen partnerships with cruise lines, and thereby increase opportunities for Bahamians in the cruise business.

“Thus far, MSC expert trainers have already invited local representatives on board an MSC vessel to undergo training as per MSC’s standards. In turn, these select trainers from the National Training Agency will be equipped to conduct workplace preparation courses for potential candidates as well as further training in the areas of basic safety, hospitality and pre-embarkation, which will all take place in MSC’s training facility on Grand Bahama Island.”

According to MSC’s press release, Bahamians interested in employment opportunities on board MSC cruise ships should submit their cover letters and resumes to bahamiancareers@gmail.com on or before April 28.

Applicants must be at least 22 and possess a minimum of four years of experience in the hospitality industry and/or food and beverage. Potential candidates will be pre-screened and invited to a presentation and subsequent interview with MSC next month, the company said.

MSC Shipping Limited - current partner of the Hutchison Group of Companies in Freeport and sister-company of MSC Cruises - is the second largest container carrier in the world and biggest privately owned cruise line in the world.

With a total of twelve cruise ships in its fleet, in addition to 480 cargo vessels, a presence in 45 countries and with 16,000 current employees, MSC Cruises is the market leader in Europe, South America and South Africa, the company said.

“In conjunction with the government, MSC has already begun developments in the Bahamas, particularly in Grand Bahama. Notably, the expansion of the Freeport Container Port, one of MSC’s most active hubs, is presently underway. MSC has committed to contribute to the financing of the phase five expansion, which will lead to an increase of capacity at the port, and ultimately provide further business, entrepreneurial and employment opportunities on the island of Grand Bahama.

“Additionally, this past January, the government and MSC broke ground in Ocean Cay. The site is expected to undergo a $200 million transformation into a cruise port, boutique hotel, marine park and Bahamian cultural and entertainment hub, providing jobs related to construction and cay operations.

“MSC’s investments are expected to strengthen Bahamian entrepreneurial development through the offer of financing of construction and equipment in respect of restaurants, retail shops, water sports, entertainment and attractions; to be operated primarily by Bahamians,” MSC said.