Govt. eyes seasonal work in America

By Joyetter Feagaimaali’i-Luamanu 10 August 2017, 12:00AM

Seasonal employment opportunities could soon be extended to include the United States of America.

That’s if the plan by the government through the Seasonal Employment Unit (S.E.U.) of the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Labour, is successful. 

Speaking to the Samoa Observer, the Chief Executive Officer, Pulotu Lyndon Chu Ling, said they are looking at employment opportunities beyond New Zealand and Australia. 

He said they are working with the Ministry of the Prime Minister  and Cabinet to explore the possibility of workers from Samoa being sent to the United States.

It’s early days yet, but Pulotu said this presents a huge opportunity for Samoa.

“We anticipate to expand our services,” he said. “We’re recruiting more employees, given this division of our Ministry is growing, and we need more people to carry out the mandates of this office. 

“We understand that there are more opportunities for Samoans to work in New Zealand and Australia. 

“This means we need more staff.”

The S.E.U. was with the Ministry of  th ePrime Minister and Cabinet in its capacity as the locally based recruitment arm for the New Zealand and Australia’s seasonal employment programs. 

Ten years ago, Samoa became one of the eight Pacific Island countries providing seasonal workers to overcome labour shortages in New Zealand’s horticulture and viticulture industries. 

The program was adopted by Samoa in 2006.

Two months ago, the Chief Executive with the Ministry of the Prime Minister and Cabinet, Agafili Shem Leo, signed a Memorandum of Understanding with villages also related the seasonal workers. 

The M.O.U. with villages is to strengthen the local administration of the temporary employment process, with villages playing a leading role when it comes to disciplinary enforcement, as well as monitoring the behaviors, of their respective villagers who are fortunate to be eligible for seasonal work in New Zealand and Australia.  

Pulotu noted how crucial and important the M.O.U. is because it relays a strong message to Samoa that the government is leading the way in securing more employment and new jobs for the people.

“The M.O.U. signifies the importance of this stepping stone and we are asking our community leaders to make an effort and support this initiative.” 

“It’s not just for the government, but for low income families needing work to support their families.”

By Joyetter Feagaimaali’i-Luamanu 10 August 2017, 12:00AM
Samoa Observer

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