NEW ZEALAND (Commonwealth Union)_New Zealand’s new Prime Minister has promised to look at an overstayer petition started nearly three years ago by Pacific community leaders.
The petition requests that paths to residency be developed for Pasifika overstayers on compassionate grounds. The petition has received 11,119 signatures. The Petitions Committee suggested that Parliament take notice. Chris Hipkins was questioned by RNZ Pacific about the government’s lack of action on the problem.
“I want to ensure that we have a country in New Zealand where Pacific people are appreciated, have a place, and where we can keep a really strong link with their home countries,” he said.
When asked if he plans to amend the government’s policy, he stated, “I haven’t had a chance to look at that subject yet, but I absolutely intend to look at it.”
Tongan overstayers who have nothing to go home to one year after the deadly volcano eruption are one example of Pasifika people in need of assistance.
People are afraid of being deported, according to Tongan community spokesperson Pakilau Manase Lua. He stated that he does not advocate breaking the law. He claims that the people he is fighting for have legitimate reasons to stay and deserve sympathy.
“They may have been here during the lockdowns and were unable to return. Or they were here on a temporary visa and were unable to return owing to the eruption, thus these folks are likely looking for a better life, and what better place to do so than Aotearoa New Zealand.
“These are frequently folks who are already working,” Pakilau explained.
Overstayers contribute to the economy but are not eligible for benefits, according to him. The government has indicated previously that it is: “committed to sustaining a fair rules-based immigration system and delivering on the goals of the immigration rebalancing”.
However, it acknowledged that “progressing an amnesty for overstayers would be a significant endeavour, and regardless of whatever group of people it might be extended to, it would take time to progress and would require legislative change.”
Pakilau demands immediate action since overstayers and their children are currently afraid.
“It links in with the Dawn Raids’ apologies; apologising is nice, but it will not fix the problem we have now, especially for their children; children of overstayers are an innocent party; it is not their fault.”
Chris Hipkins stated that he is devoted to Pacific Communities in Aotearoa and will investigate the petition’s requests. The government has indicated previously that it is: “committed to sustaining a fair rules-based immigration system and delivering on the goals of the immigration rebalancing”.
