Research shows benefits of overseas worker scheme
New research on the Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) scheme shows it continues to have major benefits for workers, employers and the countries involved, says Immigration Minister Nathan Guy.
“The RSE policy was designed to help with seasonal labour shortages in the horticulture and viticulture industries, and this new research by the Department of Labour shows the scheme is working well.
“Research on earnings and return rates found that the majority of new workers will return to work another season in New Zealand, many for the same employer.
“RSE workers are paid the same rate as New Zealand workers and have the same protections under law. Data shows that mean gross seasonal earnings are around NZ$12,700 per worker, most of whom spend between three and seven months working in New Zealand.
“The 2011 survey of RSE employers found that most have enjoyed better quality, more productive workers and a more stable workforce. Many say that RSE workers have helped their businesses to expand.
“At the same time it is providing valuable income, skills and experience that workers can take back to their home countries.
“Up to 8,000 overseas workers come to New Zealand under the RSE scheme every year. Employers have an obligation to get unemployed New Zealanders into jobs, but there are some industries that just cannot find enough workers, particularly at peak times.
“Up to 50,000 seasonal workers across New Zealand can be required at harvest time and RSE workers make up 6-7,000 of that, which equates to 10-15%.
“These reports are encouraging and the Government will continue to monitor the scheme closely,” says Mr Guy.
The two reports Return Migration and Earnings of Workers in New Zealand’s Recognised Seasonal Employer Scheme and RSE Monitoring: Key Findings from the 2011 Employers’ Survey are available at http://www.dol.govt.nz/publications/research/rse-return-workers
and http://www.dol.govt.nz/publications/research/rse-employer-survey2011