Approximately 1,300 professionals from the southern and central regions of Quintana Roo have lost their jobs in the last two months. These individuals, primarily young professionals, were previously employed by the Tren Maya construction project, earning substantial salaries ranging from 7,000 to 14,000 pesos every two weeks.
Jorge Luis Ovando Martínez, president of the Association of Professionals from Quintana Roo, highlighted the difficulties this group will face. The lack of similar job opportunities offering comparable benefits and wages will likely pose a significant challenge.
Martínez criticized the lack of government action to stimulate the local economy, resulting in a dearth of private sector opportunities that align with the professionals' qualifications. While the city of Chetumal often has job openings within the bureaucratic system, these positions are currently filled to capacity.
The primary challenge for these young professionals, according to Martínez, will be adjusting to a lower income after nearly two years of substantial earnings. Compounded by inflation and the complicated economic situation in the region, few have been able to save enough to sustain themselves for more than a few months.
Martínez warned of a potential exodus of this highly-skilled labor force unless the local, state, and federal governments can effectively collaborate with Tren Maya to attract investment and businesses to the southern region.
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