Dr Wayne Mapp
National Immigration Spokesman and
Pansy Wong, National MP
31 March 2004
Publicity and profile see NZIS applications fast tracked
The fast tracking of NZIS applications after intervention by a leading law firm and the media is a disturbing sign of
the culture of the NZIS, say National Members of Parliament, Dr Wayne Mapp and Pansy Wong.
A Christchurch nurse, seeking residency for her Scottish husband, was outraged to hear that the residency of entertainer
Michael Barrymore had been fast tracked. Her approaches to her local MP and the Immigration Service were fruitless so
she approached the media.
After her story went to print the woman was approached by Mr Barrymore's lawyer who offered his services free of charge.
The lawyer met with the NZIS within an hour of the approach and, as a result, her husband's work permit is likely to be
extended.
"What kind of message is the NZIS sending to potential migrants?" asks Dr Mapp and Mrs Wong.
"If this case is anything to go by, publicity and media intervention is the fastest way to secure residency," says Dr
Mapp.
"Clearly the service has learnt nothing from the Ombudsmen's report into the 'lie in unison' fiasco.
"If the new Immigration Minister is serious about turning around the culture of the NZIS he must conduct an urgent
inquiry and reassure the public of the integrity and fairness of the system," say the National MPs.
Ends