Demand for Open Work Visas by Former Prolink NZ Workers
In a recent development, around 50 migrant workers who are facing uncertainty after the collapse of their employer, Prolink NZ, are demanding open work visas and accountability from the company’s directors. The workers, predominantly from China and Vietnam, arrived in New Zealand on Accredited Employer Work Visas in early 2023, only to find themselves in a precarious situation due to alleged fraudulent practices by their employer.
Workers’ Plight
The group of workers, many of whom arrived with their families, have been struggling to secure full-time employment despite paying hefty fees for their visas and jobs. They claim to have received minimal work hours, with some not having any work at all for extended periods. This widespread breach of contract has left them in a dire financial situation, exacerbated by Prolink NZ’s sudden liquidation.
Worker’s Testimonies
Several workers have come forward with accounts of being coerced by the company to provide misleading information to Immigration New Zealand (INZ) officials during an investigation. Pressure from Prolink NZ allegedly forced workers to underreport their actual work hours and conditions, creating a culture of fear and compliance within the company.
Chuhan Jiao, one of the affected workers, shared her experience of feeling helpless and compelled to comply with the company’s demands to ensure her livelihood. She mentioned being closely monitored while filling out questionnaires for INZ, which prevented her from disclosing the true extent of the exploitation she faced.
Call for Action
Despite the workers’ pleas for open work visas and legal action against Prolink NZ’s directors, INZ has cited legal limitations in extending their visas. While the investigation into the company’s practices is ongoing, affected workers continue to face uncertainty and financial hardship.
The workers’ stories highlight the vulnerabilities faced by migrant workers in New Zealand and the urgent need for stronger protections and accountability measures within the visa system. As the situation unfolds, it is crucial for authorities to address the systemic issues exposed by the Prolink NZ case and ensure that affected workers receive the support and justice they deserve.