Immigration changes big step in right direction

Media statement Wednesday, July 2nd, 2003

Immigration changes big step in right direction for skills

Business has for ever said the best way of selecting immigrants suited to New Zealand was for them to show they had a genuine offer of a job from a New Zealand enterprise. The changes announced yesterday move a long way towards delivering this approach and the Employers & Manufacturers Association (Northern) endorses it with enthusiasm.

"Immigration Minister Lianne Dalziel's approach is fundamentally the right one for business, particularly for manufacturing businesses," said Alasdair Thompson, EMA's chief executive.

"A Labour Department survey last year showed many of our enterprises are not growing as fast as they could because of a lack of suitable skills, especially people with trades and vocational skills.

"Skills shortages were found to be holding back growth for 42% of smaller businesses.

"But the door must also be kept wide open for immigrants bringing capital with them.

"In addressing the issues, Minister Dalziel has made more progress with the portfolio than any minister I can remember.

"While some people may be disadvantaged, the change needed was bound to cause some disruption.

ENDS

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