No basis for a new levy on migrants says Multicultural NZ

Media Release   I   01 February 2017

Multicultural New Zealand welcomes a new report by The New Zealand Initiative which shows that New Zealand is benefiting significantly from immigration. The report, Why migrants make good Kiwis, shows that immigrants provide an average of $2,653 to the economy while the average kiwi provides just $172.

“The report confirms what we always knew – that immigration provides immense net value to New Zealand.” Says Multicultural New Zealand Executive Director Tayo Agunlejika.
“Migrants love New Zealand and make it a much stronger and vibrant country for everyone” said Mr. Agunlejika.
Given the findings of the report Multicultural New Zealand is surprised and disappointed that the report recommends a levy on immigrants to help pay for new infrastructure.
“We support the need for more infrastructures but this report just shows that immigrants already contribute a disproportionately high amount to the economy. Where’s the rationale to levy them for even more?”

Multicultural New Zealand is pleased to see Immigration Minister Michael Woodhouse come out publically against the levy. “The idea appears to be poorly thought out and targets the wrong people.” said Mr. Agunlejika.

The report by the New Zealand Initiative shows that most New Zealanders recognize the value of immigration with 71% of Kiwis feeling that migrants make an important contribution to the country. The report also shows that 87% of migrants feel they belong in New Zealand.

Minority groups however continue to experience significant discrimination in employment and public services as highlighted in Multicultural New Zealand’s report, Our Multicultural Future.

ENDS

Multicultural NZ: Federation of Multicultural Councils Inc. is a national organisation with 19 constituent regional multicultural councils, Newcomers Network throughout New Zealand and national councils for women, youth, seniors and business. We offer a national collective voice for ethnic, migrant and refugee communities and provide advice to government and civil society on multicultural policy and practice. We work in partnership with other national organisations and foster collaboration to promote cultural diversity. We deliver a range of programmes including multicultural education and training, multicultural sports, settlement support programmes, youth activities and community capacity building. We have a record of 27 years’ successful service to the community.

For further information please contact Tayo Agunlejika, Executive Director on 04 9169177 or email info@mnz.org.nz