Adjustment to NZ Pacific Seasonal Labour Scheme damned

Updated June 9, 2009 16:47:15

Changes to New Zealand's seasonal work scheme for Pacific Islanders have drawn the ire of the opposition Labour Party, which says they open the door to exploitation. The changes announced by Immigration Minister, Jonathan Coleman, will see an extra work permit introduced to allow seasonal workers to stay longer in New Zealand, the introduction of compulsory health insurance, and a new system for pay deductions that will be supervised by the Department of Labour.

Presenter: Jemima Garrett
Speaker: Darien Fenton, Labour Party spokesperson; Jerf Van Beek, Seasonal Labour co-ordinator with Horticulture New Zealand