A labour exchange will be organised in September 2007 in the central Bulgarian town of Stamboliiski, Deputy Labour and Social Policy Minister Baki Hyuseinov said.

He presented the results of an opinion poll by the Labour and Social Policy Ministry, called Roma for the Roma.

Hyuseinov referred to the appointment of employment intermediaries for the community who could assist in finding jobs for the Roma, according to Bulgarian news agency BTA.

The Labour and Social Policy Ministry aims to ensure permanent employment for the Roma minority.

According to the poll, successful Roma businessmen and leaders could serve as important role models, and assist in finding better employment for Roma people. There was also hope that these leaders could help secure fellowships for talented children and students.

The ministry also plans to promote entrepreneurship among the Roma community.

Education for children is of primary importance for Roma families, said Emilia Voinova, director of the Ministry’s Demographic Policy and Equal Opportunities Directorate.

The importance of having Roma teachers in schools was also emphasised.

Elka Dimitrova, director of Labour Market Policy Directorate, said that the social employment programme includes about 18 000 Roma.