New Zealand: Red meat sector welcomes new work visas
Sirma Karapeeva, chief executive of the Meat Industry Association, says migrant workers are essential to keeping more Kiwis employed in meat processing plants.
“While the sector aims to employ New Zealanders first and foremost, the reality is that during the peak months of the processing season the demand for these roles exceeds the available workforce in New Zealand.
“Improving the ability to employ migrant workers on a seasonal visa means meat processors can ensure shifts run at maximum capacity on a regular basis.
“This results in more sustainable employment and income for New Zealanders employed by the sector.
“When meat processing plants have enough people to run at full capacity, companies can process every part of the carcass to capture maximum value, ensuring higher returns on exports which flows back to farmers, regional New Zealand and the economy”.
The sector is also committed to providing appropriate pastoral care and wraparound support to migrant workers, she says.
“Companies help them to participate in their communities and enjoy the Kiwi lifestyle while they are in New Zealand.
“The red meat industry is a cornerstone of New Zealand’s economic and social wellbeing, earning almost $10 billion in export value in 2023/24. It supports over 92,000 jobs and generates approximately $4.6 billion in household income for Kiwis.
“At the regional level, especially in rural New Zealand, its importance is even more pronounced.
“We thank Minister Stanford and government officials for their positive engagement with the sector”.
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