Some 200 people working in tourism industry have lost their jobs during the last 3 months, Tourism Employee Association of Maldives (TEAM) President Easa Adam has said.

He made the statement on Wednesday, while briefing the media on planned activities of the association and current issues facing Maldives tourism industry, at a press conference held at news room Fansavees / Dharubaarge.

TEAM President expressed some 200 people working in the tourist industry lost their jobs during the last 3 months and that 15 to 20 people working in resorts quit their jobs every week citing various reasons.

He expressed that while the global economy is at a down turn, holding demonstrations to express dissatisfactions over wages should not the first option and that best way to engage in dialogue to find amicable solutions.

Highlighting that Employment Law has severe discrepancies, he said the way the law is worded and written, different interpretations are being taken and consequently the very rights the law is intended to protect is being violated. He said TEAM is holding discussions with Maldives Association of Tourism Industry (MATI) to agree on a common interpretation.

Further TEAM President expressed his concern over loss of jobs in the industry, especially the jobs of the association’s agents in various resorts. He said majority of the people sacked are Maldivians and that resort management should give due consideration before laying any Maldivian.

Speaking at the news conference, TEAM Vice President Mauroof said most of the resorts do not follow the Labor Law of the country and urged all resort owners to abide the law. He further urged all resort employees to work hard and to hold on to their jobs. He said at this time of global economic recession, it is better to stick to their jobs rather than demonstrating to obtain better wages and privileges.