Scoop has an Ethical Paywall
Cutting refugee numbers will cost not save
10 August 2005
Cutting refugee numbers will cost not save
The National Party’s immigration policy released yesterday shows a lack of understanding of refugee policy in New Zealand, says RMS Refugee Resettlement director Peter Cotton.
“The policy fails to distinguish clearly between refugees and migrants which is both inappropriate and misleading.
“Refugees flee conflict and persecution. For those lucky enough to find refuge in a country with a refugee resettlement programme such as New Zealand much of their energy then goes into trying to help any family members who are still in danger to get to safety.
“The Refugee Family Quota, which the National Party wants to cuts, is a ballot system which refugees pay to enter to try to bring family members here. If they’re lucky enough to win places in this lottery they then pay the airfares for their family and all the other immigration costs which migrants pay.”
Peter Cotton said if this category is axed the savings to the government will be negligible. “There’s also likely to be increased costs in primary and mental health care of refugees for whom the stress of separation from family, and ongoing anxiety about their safety, will hinder successful resettlement in New Zealand.”
ENDS
Gordon Campbell: On The Hikoi Aftermath
NZ Government: PM Marks One Year In Government
Helen Clark Foundation: Helen Clark Foundation Calls For Political Action To Reduce The Prevalence Of Junk Food And Improve Health Outcomes
Justice Committee: Further Decisions About Submissions Process For The Principles Of The Treaty Of Waitangi Bill
Infrastructure New Zealand: Single Agency Needed To Coordinate Climate Adaptation And Recovery
Free Speech Union: Fair Digital News Bargaining Bill Likely To Restrict Access To Information, Polling Shows Most Oppose
Auckland Transport: Driver Safety Screens Now Rolling Out Across Auckland’s Bus Fleet
