THERE WAS good news for CERT graduates last week, with reports that they had achieved virtually full employment last year. According to the 1996 Review of the Year by the State tourism training authority, employment vacancies increased by 22.5 per cent in 1996 and virtually full graduate employment was achieved.

Graduate trainees also had a 94 per cent approval rating among employers. As demand for graduates in the industry continues to outstrip supply, the report provides those currently studying under CERT with reason to be optimistic.

CERT trained over 11,000 people in 1996 and is campaigning to recruit an additional 6,000 people into the tourism industry.

However, James Nugent, chairman of CERT, warns that industry must continue to invest in training despite the current boom.

"Any slippage in standards because of increased numbers must be avoided, and the industry can ensure the necessary high standards by investing in staff training," Nugent says.