98 + REPORT OF THE GOVERNOR OF THE VIRGIN ISLANDS

Counseling, Testing and Related Services to Industry and Labor
 Occupational testing continued to provide an effective arm for
selection and referral of job applicants. During the year a total of
496 tests were administered. Of these, 245 were general aptitude test
batteries, 138 specific aptitude tests and 113 proficiency tests.
 The Job Counseling and Career Guidance program has become in-
creasingly important in the placement of job applicants in a rapidly
changing economy characterized by a sharp industrial growth. A
total of 865 counseling interviews were conducted during the year.
 As a part of its expanded program of service to special groups,
the Virgin Islands Employment Service found jobs for 101 veterans
and ex-servicemen and placed 32 handicapped persons in gainful em-
ployment during the year. An increased number of youths utilized
the employment service facilities during the year. General aptitude
tests were given to 195 high school students in the islands, and 656
applicants under 20 years of age were placed in jobs during the year.
Services to our senior citizens included the placement of 380 workers
45 years of age and over, of which 366 were between 45 and 65 years
and 14 at 65 and over.

Farm Placement Service
 A highlight of the farm placement program was the completion
and publication in April 1962 of the St. Thomas and St. John Agri-
cultural Manpower Requirements Survey. The study disclosed cur-
rent agricultural manpower requirements for the area and projected
agricultural employment needs to 1964.
 A comprehensive program for the improvement of housing facilities
for agricultural workers was activated. Through various public
media, correspondence and field inspections, the agency successfully
completed its campaign which resulted in a marked renovation of
agricultural housing quarters in the territory.

Territorial Unemployment Insurance Program
 The territory's most important step forward was taken when the
 Governor signed into law a program of unemployment insurance for
 the Islands, effective October 1, 1961. The law established an unem-
 ployment compensation service within the Virgin Islands Employment
 Service. A reserve fund is being established and benefits will be pay-
 able starting in January 1964.