Development Impacts Of Short-Term Migration In The Pacific

This work sought to explore the development impacts of RSE, particularly the changes in the lives and livelihood for migrants as well as the expected gains to employers. The field research was carried out in the months of August and September, 2010. Epi Island in Vanuatu was selected as a case study for the field research. A few of the RSE employers in New Zealand who had recruited Ni-Vanuatu in the horticulture and viticulture industry were interviewed as well. From the findings, it is clear that the RSE Scheme generally benefitted both the Ni-Vanuatu labourers and their employers. Although there are some issues that need to be addressed, overall, the scheme ensures that dual objectives of creating a win-win outcome are being met. The migrants interviewed reported benefits in terms of income (including sending remittances), new skill transfers, and greater productivity consciousness, improvement in education and housing and start-up of small businesses in the community. The employers have also realised productivity gains from migrants who participated in consecutive contracts, and have been assured a reliable and readily available pool of workers.

Autorentext

Ronald teaches economics at undergraduate level at the University of the South Pacific (USP). He holds a BSc. in math and computer science, Post Grad. Dip. and M.A. in Development Studies, and M.Com in Economics from USP.