State companies ready to hire immigrants
Many state-owned companies are ready to offer jobs to refugees, but residency and work permit are a must, as is a background check.
The Ministry of Economic Affairs, which oversees the majority of state-owned companies, said legislation on asylum seekers, and their rights, must be cleared up first.
Tallinn Airport CEO Tiit Kepp said the company could hire 10 asylum seekers immediately, and they could be used to do jobs which require English or Russian.
Eesti Post also showed willingness to hire around 10 people immediately, as mailmen or mail room staff. Elron, the rail passenger service provider, said it has vacant posts for cleaning staff.
RMK, the forest management center, said jobs could be offered on a seasonal basis, but cooperation with local governments is necessary.
Economy Minister Kristen Michal said that if the social and interior ministries have drawn up a plan to integrate asylum seekers in to the labor market, then his ministry can begin to help out. “Fortunately or unfortunately the situation currently in many parts of Estonia is one of labor shortages, and this (new workers) could be positive for the economy,” he added.
Editor: J.M. Laats