NZCTU calls for action on RSE scheme

The RSE scheme allows the horticulture and viticulture industries to recruit workers from the Pacific Islands for seasonal work.

NZCTU president Richard Wagstaff says migrant wellbeing needs to be at the centre of all discussions on the issue.

“As unions we cannot stand by while there are reports of RSE workers in NZ facing exploitation and unacceptable working and living conditions,” says Wagstaff.

“These workers are vulnerable and need stronger protection and advocacy so they don’t become victim of rip-off employers.”

In August, Minister Wood confirmed the Government would start a review of the scheme early next year, a move the NZCTU supports.

“We expect that process to result in better outcomes for RSE workers. This review needs to result in changes that will bring us all confidence that RSE workers have clear and unambiguous rights to decent work and decent living conditions in NZ,” says Wagstaff.

He says the review also needed to clarify how those rights will be monitored and enforced.

Wagstaff says, in light of reports of mistreatment of RSE workers, the NZCTU and its affiliates do not support the increase to the number of RSE workers allowed into New Zealand announced late last month.

“However, we are pleased to see the Minister issue an immediate improvement to sick leave entitlement, and the NZCTU and unions will be actively participating with industry to make some immediate improvements and progress on a range of issues.”

Those issues include improving accommodation, providing independent support and benefits, and better managing poor employers.