2 July 2003
PR130/2003
Farmers take Cautious Look at Immigration Changes

Federated Farmers will be looking carefully at the changes to the immigration laws announced yesterday, says Charlie Pedersen, Vice-President, Federated Farmers of New Zealand

"The agriculture industry has for some time faced a shortage of skilled and experienced employees said Mr Pedersen.

"Immigration policies to date have failed to deal with the serious shortage that has been holding back development in the country's number one export earner.

"Many farmers are struggling to find quality staff particularly when looking for mid-level managers or trained new entrants to the industry. The immigration service has in the past being an option that has proved difficult for farmers to access and has left many feeling frustrated.

"Experience is an important indicator of skill and sometimes this experience does not come with formal qualifications. Federated Farmers will be looking to see that realistic criteria are being developed."

ENDS

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