Samoan seasonal workers pictured during apple harvesting in New Zealand. Photo: Ahumāra Kai Aotearoa

Samoa’s Prime Minister La’aulialemalietoa Leuatea Polāta’ivao Fosi Schmidt is visiting New Zealand to meet Samoan workers employed through the Recognised Seasonal Employer scheme.

The Prime Minister is expected to meet Samoan men and women working in Napier, Wellington and Blenheim as part of the Government’s efforts to hear directly about their experiences, concerns and welfare.

He will also meet employers and agricultural operators to discuss the implementation of the RSE programme and ways to strengthen cooperation between Samoa and New Zealand.

The visit will include discussions on issues affecting Samoan seasonal workers, as well as clarification of recent Cabinet-approved decisions concerning Samoa’s participation in New Zealand’s seasonal employment arrangements.

The Government said the meetings are intended to ensure its policies continue to support the wellbeing of workers while maintaining sustainable employment opportunities for Samoan families.

More than 6,000 Samoans are currently employed in New Zealand through the RSE scheme.

Accompanying the Prime Minister are Minister of Commerce, Industry and Labour Fata Ryan Schuster, ministry chief executive Fepulea’i Roger Toleafoa and other ministry officials.

The delegation is scheduled to return to Samoa on Friday, 24 July.

This article is based on an official release issued by the Press and Communication Division of Samoa’s Ministry of the Prime Minister and Cabinet.