An Inequalities and Policy Research Specialist believes this country has lost out on opportunities to harness skilled labour from migrants.
Speaking during a UWI Webinar on Migration in Trinidad and Tobago, Maria Jose Flor Agreda noted many instances where Venezuelan migrants were not acknowledged for their expertise in certain areas, including the medical and energy field.
She believes Trinidad and Tobago has suffered a “double whammy” of brain drain, where skilled labour is lost when Nationals emigrate, and also lost the opportunity of skilled migrants.
Ms. Flor Agreda says according to her data, many skilled migrants would seek an alternative place to live where their expertise is acknowledged.
The Research Specialist said according to her data, over 80% of Venezuelans say they found difficulty in finding a job in their field of expertise since they do not have immigration status.