Race Relations Commissioner to investigate Pacific study

An academic report describing Pacific Islanders as a drain on the economy is to be investigated by the Race Relations Commissioner.

Commissioner Joris de Bres said today that the commission hosted a meeting yesterday attended by academics, community members and analysts from government departments.

Significant concerns were raised over the academic rigour of the Massey University report, he told Radio New Zealand.

Mr de Bres, who will issue terms of reference for the investigation, said the report had resulted in a significant amount of prejudice vented over the internet and on talk-back radio.

A Massey University spokesperson said the university welcomed the review and expected staff members to make submissions.

The report is part of a three-year study, Growing Pains: Evaluations and the Cost of Human Capital, based on data from the Economic Development Ministry, Labour Department and Pacific Island Affairs Ministry.

Headed by economist Greg Clydesdale, of Massey University's management and international business department, the study is due to be presented at conference in Brazil in July.

The report said Pacific Island immigrants were less productive and less likely to contribute to economic growth.

They had the highest unemployment in every age group, were less likely to start businesses, had lower rates of self-employment and were over-represented in crime statistics.

- NZPA