Another six Fijians depart today for New Zealand under the Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) scheme.

This six are Timoci Qabale, Maria Turagakacivi, Asinate Vonowale, Ratu Luke Raidola, Mikaele Nadaku and Lui Waqaiquma.

They join the other 24 who left last month for seasonal work in NZ.

They were farewelled yesterday by the Minister for Employment, Productivity and Industrial Relations, Jioji Konrote, while closing their three-day pre-departure training at the Tanoa Skylodge Hotel in Nadi.

“They leave and make up the 30 members of the pilot scheme that we had agreed to with the New Zealand government,” Mr Konrote said.

“They will be there for the next 6-7 months before they come back.”

Mr Konrote said they had received positive feedbacks from those who had started work in New Zealand.

“All the reports we are getting back are very favourable, in fact the employers are very happy with their performance.

“It goes to show that our selection criteria, procedures and system works.”

He said the performance of workers being sent could determine the amount of Fijians hired under the scheme.

He also calls on young unemployed Fijians to be independent and use available resources for their future.

“Our unemployed youths from rural areas should go back to the village and start farming. There is money to make instead of idling around in towns and become a social burden to the rest of the family.”

He said annually there could be about 12,000 to 14,000 school leavers after Year 12 and 13 looking for work.

“When you get a job, make sure you stick with it and be committed because employers today are very conscious that some young people use jobs as stepping stones for higher things,” he said.

Feedback:  sheetalp@fijisun.com.fj