RSE scheme a success - report

A report on the Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) scheme, which brings Pacific workers to Marlborough and other parts of New Zealand to fill horticulture and viticulture workforce gaps, shows that while some difficulties have been presented, it has generally been a useful and positive initiative.

The scheme links workers mainly from countries such as Vanuatu, Tonga, Samoa, Kiribati and Tuvalu to New Zealand to fill seasonal shortages, and has been running since 2007.

A report released by the Department of Labour yesterday shows the scheme improved from the first to the second season in terms of assistance and productivity gains to employers and general cohesion.

The first season involved 126 employers bringing 2883 workers out, and some recruitment difficulties were experienced as a result of the different aims of employers and the island nations.

The nations wanted to give as many of their citizens as possible opportunities to work in New Zealand, and priority was given to poorer citizens and those living in rural communities.

The report said employers considered the best results came when relationships were built with specific communities.

Greater emphasis was now being placed on locally and culturally appropriate selection than on ensuring every individual had an equal opportunity to apply.

Selection criteria was revised "to make sure they reflect the needs of employers for cohesive work groups and the demands of the policy", the report said.

There were a few complaints from workers, particularly in Kiribati and Tuvalu, who expressed disappointment about earning and saving less than they expected, and there were also some complaints of rents being higher than expected.

Some difficulties were presented to employers in terms of providing accommodation, with some finding the requirements to look after the workers outside work hours onerous.

An audit of wages and earnings, mostly of Tongan, Samoan and Vanuatu workers, showed the average net return per worker (less airfares, food, accommodation, transport and health insurance) over the period from September 2007 to July 2008 ranged from $2871 to $11,869.

Most employers reported initial teething problems had generally been sorted out, with workforces considered reliable and benefits of the scheme outweighing costs.

However, some employers said it was still too early to make adequate cost-benefit assessments.

- The Marlborough Express

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