The New Zealand Federation of Multicultural Councils has called on the Government to assist migrant workers affected by the Earthquake and aftershocks in Christchurch since February this year.
At its Annual General Meeting held in Wellington on June 18, the Council appealed to Immigration Minister Dr Jonathan Coleman to review the rules of engagement applicable to migrant workers.
“A number of migrants on work permits have lost their jobs as a result of this Earthquake. The Government should therefore allow them to find work in related professions elsewhere in the country,” a notification said.
The Council also urged the Government to provide ‘Study Link’ support to cover job search for international students who need help.
“Such students already have a 20-hour work permit as a part of their Student Visa. It is essential to make this scheme more proactive and positive, which will in turn promote tourism, education and business prospects in Canterbury,” the appeal said.
More than 80 delegates from 18 member Regional Multicultural Councils and three constitutional Councils (Women, Youth and Seniors) attended the AGM.
The Meeting elected Tayo Agunlejika (Upper Hutt), Rob Torr (Wanganui), Ria Munsi (North Shore) and Vijeshwar Prasad (Wanganui) respectively to the posts of National President, Vice-President, Secretary and Treasurer.
Mr Agunlejika said the Federation acknowledged the central role played by its MOU Partners including the New Zealand Police, Social Development Ministry, Office of Ethnic Affairs, the Centre for Applied Cross-Cultural Research of the Victoria University, Department of Labour, Human Rights Commission and the Community Sector Taskforce in rebuilding the quake-damaged Christchurch.
Further information about the Federation can be obtained from Tayo Agunlejika on 021-02955148. Email: executive@nzfec.org.nz
