The Solomon Islands Labour Mobility Unit (LMU) and the New Zealand High Commission are concerned that some unlicensed people in the Solomon Islands may have been recruiting for the New Zealand Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) scheme and asking for money from potential workers.

More than 450 Solomon Island citizens have worked in New Zealand's viticulture and horticulture industry since 2007 under the RSE scheme, picking fruits and grapes or working in pack houses.

The scheme is operating well, supported by regular co-operation between the LMU, based at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs & External Trade, and the New Zealand High Commission in Honiara.

The public is therefore reminded and advised that only licensed RSE agents are eligible to recruit for the New Zealand employers. Those licensed RSE agents should have in their possession a valid certificate to recruit from the LMU, a formal recommendation letter from the New Zealand employer and a confirmed Approval To Recruit (ATR) document.

Official visa and medical forms for workers are only given to licensed RSE agents by the High Commission. Photocopied forms are not accepted.

Potential workers should only deal with licensed RSE agents and should not hand over any money unless certain that the agent is genuine.

The LMU can confirm the names of valid licensed RSE agents. It will also investigate any complaints about unlicensed agents. If a member of the public has any concerns about RSE agents, they should contact the Labour Mobility Unit (phone 21250).