CHARLESTOWN, Nevis – FOUR Seasons’ Resort has confirmed that it has initiated staff reductions for an undetermined period of time based on the entity’s closure following impacts resulting from Hurricane Omar.
A statement issued yesterday afternoon (Mar. 2) by the Resort’s New York Public Relations office confirmed that all staff members were informed yesterday morning about the systematic reduction of employees.
The statement however did not release any statistics indicating the number of staff to be laid off, but a source revealed that the number would amount to 620.
"We are working closely with the Government, the company and the ownership to resolves issues as soon as possible to minimize the impact on our staff and the local community," said Andrew Humphries, Regional Vice President and General Manager, Four Seasons Resort Nevis. "This is a very difficult period for the Resort, its employees and the island, and we appreciate your patience and compassion for all those affected by these unfortunate times.”
Investigations by SKNVibes disclosed yesterday that employees would receive notice pay instead of lieu of notice. They will also receive US$1 000 each. The local official procedure for lay-offs specifically states that after a 12 week lapse, and a worker is not recalled, that worker is considered officially terminated and qualifies to claim severance pay.
Employees received their letters at a meeting held by the seaside opposite the Cabanas on the Resort’s property yesterday morning (Mar. 2).
Sylvester Pemberton who worked with the hotel for more than 10 years said the employees expected all along that this day would eventually arrive after the resort was devastated by hurricane Omar in October last year.
Pemberton declared that the situation is depressing but he would join his fellow unemployed workers to seek employment until the Resort re-opens. He also said that he was grateful to the Four Seasons Resort management for ensuring a smooth and peaceful lay-off process.
