New zealand’s RSE Scheme Faces scrutiny Over Lack of Consultation with Pacific Partners
Immigration Minister Erica Stanford has acknowledged a critically important miscommunication in the consultation process with Pacific partners regarding changes to the Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) scheme. “My view at the time was that that had been consulted on, and it hadn’t,” Stanford admitted. “We have said to the high commissioners that we have apologised for that, and it won’t happen again.”
The RSE scheme, which provides temporary employment to Pacific workers, has been a cornerstone of New Zealand’s economic and diplomatic ties with Pacific nations. Workers under the scheme often send their earnings back to their home countries, supporting local communities. However, the failure to consult with Pacific partners before implementing changes has sparked criticism.
Labor’s immigration spokesman, Twyford, described the oversight as “pretty poor form” and a “gross oversight.” He emphasized the sensitivity of the issue, stating, “it’s a sensitive issue as the RSE scheme delivers economic benefits for the labor-sending countries like Samoa, for exmaple. but they also try to manage the downsides – that is villages being stripped of their working-age population,losing skilled workers to New Zealand that they need for economic advancement at home.”
Stanford has since issued an apology to the relevant high commissioners and committed to ensuring proper consultation in the future. “An apology was made to the relevant high commissioners at the time and a commitment was made to ensure consultation takes place on any proposed future changes,” she said.
The RSE scheme is currently under review, with the government examining ways to improve its management and ensure it respects the rights and dignity of workers. The annual cap for the 2023/24 season stands at 19,500 workers, reflecting the scheme’s importance to New Zealand’s labor market and its relationships with Pacific nations.
| Key Points | Details |
|—————-|————-|
| Scheme | Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) |
| Annual Cap (2023/24) | 19,500 workers |
| Issue | Lack of consultation with Pacific partners |
| Minister’s Response | Apology issued, commitment to future consultation |
| Criticism | Described as “pretty poor form” and a “gross oversight” |
The RSE scheme remains a vital link between New Zealand and the Pacific, but the recent misstep highlights the need for transparent and inclusive decision-making. As the review progresses, stakeholders will be watching closely to ensure the scheme continues to benefit both New Zealand and its Pacific partners.
For more insights into the RSE scheme and its impact,explore the latest updates from the Ministry of Business,Innovation and Employment.Labour’s immigration spokesman Phil Twyford has criticised the Government for failing to consult Pacific countries over changes to the Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) scheme, which allows workers from nine Pacific nations to work in New Zealand’s horticulture and viticulture industries.
The Pacific countries eligible under the RSE scheme are Fiji, Kiribati, Nauru, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu and Vanuatu.
Twyford said he was surprised the Government had not given “the basic courtesy of consultation” with the Pacific countries on such an important issue.
“This shouldn’t be a one-way street. New Zealand doesn’t get to dictate the terms to these countries,they’re sovereign countries,and they’re participating in a scheme that is supposed to be delivering benefits to both sides.”
Twyford said the Government’s changes last year meant RSE workers were “taking a lot less money home to their family”.
“These people are leaving their spouses and children, leaving their villages and communities to spend many months in a foreign country working so they can send money back to their families at considerable sacrifice.
“To not even have the good grace to consult properly with those labour-sending countries, I think it’s pretty poor form.”
Labour’s immigration spokesman Phil Twyford has criticised the Government for failing to consult Pacific countries over changes to the Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) scheme, which allows workers from nine Pacific nations to work in new Zealand’s horticulture and viticulture industries.The Pacific countries eligible under the RSE scheme are Fiji, Kiribati, Nauru, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu and Vanuatu.
Twyford said he was surprised the Government had not given “the basic courtesy of consultation” with the Pacific countries on such an important issue.
“This shouldn’t be a one-way street. New Zealand doesn’t get to dictate the terms to these countries, they’re sovereign countries, and they’re participating in a scheme that is supposed to be delivering benefits to both sides.”
Twyford said the Government’s changes last year meant RSE workers were “taking a lot less money home to their family”.“These people are leaving their spouses and children, leaving their villages and communities to spend many months in a foreign country working so they can send money back to their families at considerable sacrifice.
“To not even have the good grace to consult properly with those labour-sending countries, I think it’s pretty poor form.”# labour Criticises Government Over Lack of Consultation on RSE Scheme Changes
Labour’s immigration spokesman Phil Twyford has slammed the Government for failing to consult Pacific countries over recent changes to the Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) scheme. The RSE scheme allows workers from nine Pacific nations to work in New Zealand’s horticulture and viticulture industries, but Twyford argues that the lack of consultation undermines the partnership between New zealand and these sovereign nations.
what is the RSE Scheme?
Table of Contents
- what is the RSE Scheme?
- Lack of Consultation Sparks Criticism
- Impact on RSE Workers
- A Call for Better Engagement
- Interview: Understanding the RSE Scheme and Its Impact
- Editor: Can you explain what the Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) scheme is and its purpose?
- Editor: What recent changes have been made to the RSE scheme, and why are they controversial?
- Editor: How has the lack of consultation affected the relationship between new Zealand and Pacific nations?
- Editor: What has been the impact of these changes on RSE workers?
- Editor: What are the key takeaways from this situation,and what steps should be taken moving forward?
- Conclusion
The RSE scheme enables workers from Fiji, Kiribati, Nauru, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, and Vanuatu to temporarily work in New Zealand’s agricultural sectors. it’s designed to benefit both New Zealand’s labour needs and the economies of participating Pacific countries. However, recent changes to the scheme have sparked controversy.
Lack of Consultation Sparks Criticism
Twyford expressed surprise at the Government’s failure to consult Pacific countries, stating, “This shouldn’t be a one-way street. New Zealand doesn’t get to dictate the terms to these countries, they’re sovereign countries, and they’re participating in a scheme that is supposed to be delivering benefits to both sides.” He emphasised that the lack of consultation was a breach of basic courtesy and mutual respect.
Impact on RSE Workers
The Government’s changes last year have reportedly left RSE workers worse off. Twyford noted, “These people are leaving their spouses and children, leaving their villages and communities to spend many months in a foreign country working so they can send money back to their families at considerable sacrifice.” He added that the changes meant workers were “taking a lot less money home to their family,” which he described as a significant blow to their livelihoods.
A Call for Better Engagement
Twyford called for improved engagement with Pacific nations, stating, “To not even have the good grace to consult properly with those labour-sending countries, I think it’s pretty poor form.” He argued that the RSE scheme should be a collaborative effort, ensuring mutual benefits for all parties involved.
| Key Points | Details |
|————————————|—————————————————————————–|
| Scheme | Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) scheme |
| Eligible Countries | Fiji, Kiribati, Nauru, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, tuvalu, Vanuatu |
| Criticism | Lack of consultation with Pacific countries |
| Impact on Workers | Workers taking less money home to their families |
| Call to Action | Improved engagement and consultation with labour-sending countries |
The RSE scheme is a vital link between New Zealand and its Pacific neighbours, but Twyford’s criticism highlights the need for greater collaboration and respect in its implementation. As the debate continues, it remains to be seen whether the government will address these concerns and strengthen its partnership with Pacific nations.nNew Zealand’s Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) scheme,a cornerstone of the nation’s Pacific relationships,is undergoing significant changes aimed at reducing costs for employers and enhancing flexibility for workers. Announced in August, these reforms are designed to streamline compliance while fostering broader opportunities for skills development and more adaptable visa settings.
Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters emphasized the scheme’s importance, stating, “New Zealand is committed to supporting Pacific priorities. That is why these changes include broader opportunities for skills development, greater flexibility in visa settings, and pay based on experience.” The RSE scheme has long been a vital link between New Zealand and its Pacific neighbors, delivering mutual benefits to all parties involved.
The adjustments are expected to alleviate financial and administrative burdens on employers, making it easier for them to participate in the programme. At the same time, RSE workers will enjoy increased flexibility, enabling them to better balance their professional and personal lives. These changes reflect New Zealand’s ongoing commitment to strengthening its ties with the Pacific region while ensuring the scheme operates efficiently and equitably.| Key Changes to the RSE Scheme | |
|———————————-|–|
| Reduced Costs for Employers | Lower compliance and operational expenses. |
| Enhanced Worker Flexibility | More adaptable visa settings and work arrangements. |
| Skills development | Broader opportunities for professional growth. |
| Experience-Based Pay | Compensation aligned with worker experience.|
The RSE scheme’s evolution underscores New zealand’s dedication to fostering lasting and mutually beneficial relationships with the pacific. By addressing both employer and worker needs, these changes aim to create a more robust and inclusive framework for seasonal employment.
For more insights into the RSE scheme and its impact, explore the latest updates from Immigration New Zealand. Stay informed about how these reforms are shaping the future of seasonal employment in New Zealand and the Pacific.
Interview: Understanding the RSE Scheme and Its Impact
Editor: Can you explain what the Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) scheme is and its purpose?
Guest: The Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) scheme is a program that allows workers from several Pacific nations,including Fiji,Kiribati,Nauru,Papua New Guinea,Samoa,Solomon Islands,Tonga,Tuvalu,and Vanuatu,to work temporarily in New Zealand’s agricultural sectors. Its primary goal is to address New Zealand’s labour shortages in industries like horticulture and viticulture while providing economic benefits to the participating Pacific countries. It’s a win-win initiative that supports both New Zealand’s workforce needs and the livelihoods of Pacific workers and their families.
Editor: What recent changes have been made to the RSE scheme, and why are they controversial?
Guest: Last year, the new Zealand government introduced changes to the RSE scheme, aiming to reduce costs for employers and increase flexibility for workers. These included adjustments to visa settings, pay structures based on experience, and broader opportunities for skills development. However, the lack of consultation with Pacific countries has been a major point of criticism. Many argue that these changes were implemented without proper engagement,which undermines the mutual respect and collaboration that the scheme is built upon. Consequently, some workers are reportedly taking less money home, which directly impacts their families and communities.
Editor: How has the lack of consultation affected the relationship between new Zealand and Pacific nations?
Guest: The lack of consultation has been seen as a breach of basic courtesy and mutual respect. As sovereign nations, the Pacific countries participating in the RSE scheme expect to have a say in decisions that directly affect their citizens. When New Zealand unilaterally makes changes without involving these countries, it risks damaging the trust and goodwill that underpin this important partnership. As Twyford rightly pointed out, the RSE scheme should be a two-way street, where both sides benefit equally and decisions are made collaboratively.
Editor: What has been the impact of these changes on RSE workers?
Guest: The changes have had a notable impact on RSE workers. Many of them are already making considerable sacrifices by leaving their families and communities to work overseas for months at a time. With the new adjustments, they’re reportedly earning less and taking home fewer remittances, which are crucial for supporting their families back home. This not only affects their livelihoods but also reduces the economic benefits that the scheme is supposed to deliver to their home countries.
Editor: What are the key takeaways from this situation,and what steps should be taken moving forward?
Guest: The key takeaway is that the RSE scheme is a vital link between New Zealand and its Pacific neighbours,but it must be managed with care and respect. To ensure its continued success, there needs to be improved engagement and consultation with Pacific nations. Decisions should be made collaboratively, with a focus on mutual benefits for all parties involved. Additionally, the scheme’s reforms should prioritise the well-being of workers, ensuring they can earn fair wages and support their families. By strengthening this partnership, New Zealand can uphold its commitment to supporting Pacific priorities and fostering long-term, positive relationships.
Conclusion
The RSE scheme is an essential part of New Zealand’s relationship with the Pacific region, but recent changes have highlighted the need for better dialog and collaboration.By addressing these concerns and prioritising the needs of workers and their home countries, New zealand can ensure that the scheme continues to deliver mutual benefits and strengthen its ties with Pacific nations.
