The Government's latest visa changes allow businesses to pay migrant workers less than the median wage.
The Labour Party has strongly criticized the move, stating it will not only harm migrant workers but also drive down wages for Kiwi workers. Labour immigration spokesperson Phil Twyford accused the National and ACT parties of "disgraceful" actions, allowing employers to rely on migrant workers for minimum-wage jobs and removing the incentive to hire local staff.
The changes will see the removal of a requirement that migrant workers be paid at least the median wage. This move has been met with criticism from Labour, who point out that it contradicts the Government's claims to protect migrant workers' rights. The party argues that this decision is part of a broader pattern of weakening worker protections and lowering wages in New Zealand.
According to Phil Twyford, the Minister responsible for implementing the changes had previously spoken out against poor treatment of migrant workers when she was in opposition, but has since taken steps to cut their bargaining power and lower their earnings. The Labour Party urges the public to stay informed about these developments by signing up to their mailing list and following them on social media.