Prime Minister Christopher Luxon of New Zealand and Papua New Guinea’s Prime Minister James Marape have announced plans to expand the Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) program, aiming to boost the number of short-term horticultural workers from Pacific countries to New Zealand.
During a stopover in Port Moresby en route to Japan, Luxon met with Marape to discuss a refreshed partnership agreement set to be finalised before September. The RSE program, which currently involves workers from nine Pacific nations, is vital for New Zealand’s horticulture industry, addressing labor shortages during peak seasons. Luxon proposed doubling the number of RSE workers from 19,000 to approximately 38,000, ensuring this increase is sustainable for both New Zealand and the participating countries.
Luxon highlighted the importance of adequate accommodation and fair working conditions for these seasonal workers. The initiative aims to benefit both the workers, who can gain valuable skills and qualifications, and their home countries through remittances and improved employment prospects upon their return.
Marape welcomed the expansion, emphasising the positive impact on workers and their communities. He expressed appreciation for New Zealand’s longstanding support and interventions in PNG’s affairs. Both leaders underlined the importance of strengthening their bilateral relationship and working together on trade and economic development.
In response to the recent landslide disaster in PNG’s Enga province, which resulted in significant casualties and displacement, Luxon reiterated New Zealand’s commitment to humanitarian aid. New Zealand’s defence forces have been instrumental in delivering supplies to the affected areas, with ongoing support being coordinated through non-governmental organisations.
Further discussions between the two leaders are planned at the upcoming Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting in Tonga. Additionally, Luxon has been invited to PNG’s 50th anniversary of independence next year, signifying the deepening ties between the two nations.
Following his visit to Papua New Guinea, Luxon will continue to Japan to meet with Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, accompanied by a business delegation representing over 30 New Zealand companies, including Air New Zealand and Fonterra.
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