The sun is shining and the temperatures are rising. Italians and tourists cool off by the sea. It is the first summer season in which many corona rules no longer apply, but this creates a problem: there is simply a staff shortage after the break. The Italian beach facilities have approximately 4,000 lifeguards.
From northern to southern Italy, bathing establishments are struggling with staff shortages. The Bathing Establishments Association complained that 40 percent of lifeguards who need beach amenities are not available. One lifeguard is required per 100 meters of beach.
Beach facilities threatened with closure
During the lockdown, many people employed as lifeguards had to look for other and safer jobs. During the lockdown, the certification courses for lifeguards have been stopped. Without a lifeguard, many beach facilities in Italy are threatened with closure. The lack of staff is also putting pressure on many hotels, which are unable to open their pools to guests.
Tourism and gastronomy also complain about a lack of staff. About 390,000 jobs are sought in these sectors, but in 40 percent of cases, companies struggle to find the necessary staff.
Many tourist workers took other jobs
The hoteliers complain about vacancy, in many structures a third of the necessary staff is missing. “Due to the pandemic, hospitality and tourism have not been able to guarantee the minimum stability that used to exist and workers are looking for something else. They have taken jobs as couriers, construction workers, warehouse workers and drivers,” reports Paolo Manca, president of the Federalberghi Hoteliers Association in Sardinia.
Source: Krone
I’m Wayne Wickman, a professional journalist and author for Today Times Live. My specialty is covering global news and current events, offering readers a unique perspective on the world’s most pressing issues. I’m passionate about storytelling and helping people stay informed on the goings-on of our planet.
