Record number of workers apply for industrial jobs
Huntsville, AL (WAFF) -
A record number of unemployed workers have applied through the Work Alabama program looking for industrial jobs, but agents say farmers are slow to post those jobs that were once filled by migrant workers.
The state's job link web site has received applications from 239 people interested in temporary agricultural jobs, but agency officials say only three employers have posted jobs.
The system is designed to link unemployed Alabamians with employers who've lost workers after the Immigration law took effect. Farmers have said in the past that they have failed in their attempts to hire unemployed workers to fill farm jobs.
Officials with Grow Alabama say the applicants lack the physical stamina and mental toughness for the jobs once performed by Hispanics. Workforce agents say the people applying are ready and willing to work.
"Tell us where the jobs are. Tell us how many people you need, what skills they need to have and we've got individuals who are unemployed and wanting work right now and we want to be able to help these Alabamians," said Tom Surtees, Director of Alabama's Industrial Relations Department.
Agents say they won't be able to see the full impact the Immigration law has had on unemployment until next month because of the law taking effect so late.
http://www.waff.com/story/15738115/work-alabama-update