Immigration critical to the Hospitality Industry

25 October 2007

Media Release
Available for immediate use

Immigration critical to the Hospitality Industry
 
Sixty-seven percent of the hospitality industry’s employment growth over the last five years has been met by those not born in New Zealand.  This comment from Bruce Robertson, Chief Executive of the Hospitality Association, presenting to the Transport and Industrial Relations Select Committee considering the Immigration Bill.

Continued access to those not born in New Zealand, either immigrants or working visitors, is critical if the hospitality industry is to continue to meet the needs of New Zealanders and our growing tourism industry, said Mr Robertson.

The Hospitality Association supports the Immigration Bill but wants changes to put more responsibility on those seeking work demonstrating or declaring they are entitled to work in New Zealand.  The current wording of the bill puts the majority of the responsibility on the employer.  Mr Robertson told the Select Committee that the Association provides as part of its pre-employment documentation a resource to members which includes an opportunity for prospective employees to declare their eligibility to work in New Zealand.  This declaration along with an IRD number should be sufficient proof of a persons eligibility to work in New Zealand, said Mr Robertson.

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