Currently there are 100 Fijians working in New Zealand (NZ) and Australia as seasonal workers, with 64 in NZ and 36 in Australia.

This was confirmed by Ministry of Employment, Productivity and Industrial Relations permanent secretary Salaseini Daunabuna yesterday.

“The accumulative figure for seasonal workers that we have sent since 2015 to both Australia and NZ is more than 800,” she said.

“Seasonal workers have been going to NZ and Australia from this month onwards as the new season has started.

“For Australia we have received requests throughout the year.

“The seasonal workers mostly go for kiwifruit, apple, grapes, strawberries, orange, asparagus and vegetable picking.

“Farm work in horticulture and viticulture are the most demanded seasonal work for Fijians.

“For the selection of seasonal workers, we ensure that there is a fair share of opportunity given to everyone and according to the specifications given by the employers.”

When questioned how many seasonal workers have been selected from Northern Division, Ms Daunabuna said: “We cannot really give the exact number going from the Northern Division as we facilitate as and when we receive requests from employers.

“We have a group of 15 ladies from Vaturova, Cakaudrove who have left yesterday for Turners and Growers which is located in Kerikeri, NZ where the group will be picking strawberries and blueberries and may from time-time work in the Pack House,” she said.

Edited Mohammed Ali

Feedback:  shratikan@fijisun.com.fj