Points from a speech delivered by the Hon. Dr. Michael A. Refalo, Minister for Tourism at the presentation and launching of "Malta Hotel and Catering Services Limited: Partnership in Training Initiative" at St. George's Bay

"A praiseworthy initiative which complements ITS programmes and extends formal training beyond the classroom.

Surveys show that a good percentage of those working in the industry proper have received formal training. However, when a wider interpretation is given of "tourism services" to include, for example the retail trade, there is more than an apparent lack of trained personnel.

The didactic side of tourism is yet another growth area where new employment opportunities abound.

It is heartening to see private sector professionals come together in common cause to strengthen Malta's hospitality offer.

It is now ten years since ITS was set up and there is no doubt that the tourist industry has received much benefit from it.

Development at ITS within the last six months have included:-

1. the setting up of a new board inclusive of all didactic and trade interests;
2. the re-establishment of the link with the University of Malta which allows ITS graduands the opportunity to take degree courses at the University;
3. the setting of new and higher admission qualifications to ensure a more rational spread of management, administration and craft graduates;
4. separate classes for those following full-time courses and others enrolled in part-time courses;
5. encouraging the setting up of an ITS Student's Council;
6. close monitoring of the work based study system to follow students' progress and the taking of immediate remedial action when necessary;
7. the appointment of a consultant, Dr. Jean Louis Eichelmann, formerly principal of the Lausanne Hotel Academy, who will be conducting an audit on ITS systems and sillabi and make recommendations on the short-term appointment of an expatriate Director for ITS – a post last occupied by Professor De Mamo in 1996."