Immigration

The CTU has deplored the Government’s removal of the minimum wage protection for workers on the Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) scheme. Allowing employers to make deductions which will reduce pay rates below the minimum of $12.50 per hour will significantly increase exploitation of RSE workers and undermine the credibility of the scheme, said CTU Vice-President Richard Wagstaff.

“Calls by wine industry employers for even more government support to help them train Pacific workers to do the low paid jobs they offer are outrageous, in the light of recent stories of the appalling treatment of these workers,” Council of Trade Unions president Helen Kelly said today.

It is now time for a dedicated focus on decent work within the horticulture industry, said CTU secretary Carol Beaumont, in response to immigration policy announced changes today (Transitional Recognised Seasonal Employer Scheme).

“Secure and rewarding work needs to be at the heart of the horticulture and viticulture sector.”

"Migrant workers have always been a vital part of our society, and on International Migrants Day it is timely to recognise their contribution to New Zealand and to recommit to quality, decent work for all workers,” CTU secretary Carol Beaumont said.

New immigration law currently going through Parliament must include “good employer” requirements for labour migration, the Council of Trade Unions will tell a select committee this morning.