Migrant workers role acknowledged

New Zealand employers have acknowledged the positive and constructive role played by migrant workers, says a new Survey.

The Survey, commissioned by the Department of Labour, found 87% of the respondents saying that the performance of migrant workers was “very good” and “good.”

“Employers say the positive attitude displayed by migrants and that their skills and experience were driving factors behind the high ratings.”

About 425 employers throughout New Zealand participated in the Survey.

Workers from India employed on work permits would account for a significant percentage in the country’s migrant workforce.

Immigration Minister Dr Jonathan Coleman said the results of the Survey were heart-warming.

“Over a third of employers who participated in the Survey reported that migrant workers had skills and experience that were not available in New Zealand.

“Nine out of 10 of the employers had at least one migrant on staff and four-fifths had taken on a migrant in the last year,” he said.

The Survey reinforced the fact that migrant workers played a major role in the economy, adding value to their employers, he said.

“Historically New Zealand has always needed migrants to plug some gaps in our labour market. They provide employers with the staff necessary to fill certain positions, helping businesses to maintain or increase growth,” Dr Coleman said.

He acknowledged the positive impact that migrant workers had on the national economy.

He said migrant workers contributed 68% more in taxes than they received in services or benefits during the 2005-2006 fiscal year.

“This equates to $3.3 billion boost to the economy,” he said.

According to the Survey, 60% of New Zealand’s workforce growth came from permanent and temporary migrants during the period covering 2001 to 2006.

Read our editorial, Migrant workers need a fair deal

Photo: Jonathan Coleman