Recognised Seasonal Employer workers share songs of worship

24 April 2012

RSE workers share their songs of worship

Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) workers from Tonga, Samoa and Vanuatu were among Christian choirs that participated in an annual - Many People, Many Songs celebration at Nelson Cathedral in New Zealand’s upper South Island.

The event, organised by the Nelson Multicultural Council in conjunction with Nelson Cathedral and the Council of Churches, brings various ethnic communities together to share their songs of worship.

The New Zealand Department of Labour's National Manager, Recognised Seasonal Employment, Emily Fabling, said it is an opportunity for Pacific seasonal workers to be a part of a community activity and to showcase their cultures by singing their favourite songs, many of them in their native language.

“It’s great for the community to be able to appreciate the cultures of our guest RSE workers, given that they play such an important role in the local horticulture and viticulture industries.”

This was the fifth year the event has been held.

Ms Fabling said local RSE employers lent their support by encouraging their workers to be part of this event and contributing to an afternoon tea.

“These workers are from diverse ethnic groups and to bring their songs from home to New Zealand’s orchards and vineyards, and into the local community, adds a truly international flavour to this event”.

“It is an excellent opportunity to learn about each other’s cultures and, for RSE workers, to give something back to the Nelson community,” Ms Fabling said.

ENDS

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