Delta Hoteliers Face Staff Shortages and Hire from Ukraine

Imagine de Andrei Prodan de la Pixabay

Hundreds of non-EU citizens worked for tour operators in the Danube Delta this year, as they faced a shortage of qualified staff exacerbated by the pandemic. The leadership of the Danube Delta Tourism Destination Management Association (AMDTDD) considers the workforce from Ukraine to be a possible solution.

AMDTDD President Cătălin Țibuleac stated that transforming the educational institution in the town of Sulina into one with an economic profile, as well as turning to vocational schools in Izmail, Ukraine, are solutions to overcome the lack of qualified personnel in the tourism sector. Izmail has three specialized high schools that can be utilized. We have the advantage of being relatively close, the students know the Romanian language, and the costs for such hires are lower. Unfortunately, recruitment attempts for the Ukrainian workforce are too timid. Legislation differs, but we will find solutions, Cătălin Țibuleac specified.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are Danube Delta hoteliers hiring staff from Ukraine?

Due to a severe shortage of qualified local personnel, hoteliers are looking to Ukraine because of geographical proximity and the candidates’ proficiency in Romanian.

What solutions does AMDTDD propose for the labor crisis?

The association suggests partnering with vocational schools in Izmail and converting the school in Sulina into an economic-profile institution.

What are the benefits of recruiting from Izmail?

Recruits from Izmail often speak Romanian, are located nearby, and involve lower hiring costs for tourism operators.