Mr Faafoi did not confirm that yesterday nor did he weigh in on criticism of orchardists and viticulturists being over-reliant on RSE workers. Instead, he said experienced RSE workers would not start arriving New Zealand until January, in time for the 2021 summer harvest season and there were variables at play, including when produce was ready for harvest. Alongside Ministry of Social Development jobseeker initiatives, those from the horticulture and viticulture sectors also played a part — given there was a cap on entry for RSE workers, he said. The Government’s stance was to only allow RSE workers in at the peak of the season. He said the sheer volume of applications had left the industry overwhelmed, there were questions about the suitability of applicants, and RSE workers made up only a fraction of the overall workforce.

Source: Otago Daily Times December 04, 2020 15:33 UTC