1 August 2007

Introduce Migrant Integration Criteria Now

New Zealand should follow Australia’s lead and introduce integration testing for would-be migrants to ensure they can integrate into New Zealand society, says New Zealand First associate immigration spokesperson Peter Brown.

“We live in a volatile world and it is essential for New Zealand that new migrants are both willing and able to integrate fully into New Zealand society,” said Mr Brown.

The Australian Government yesterday announced changes to its immigration rules, placing more emphasis on so-called ‘integration criteria’. Would-be migrants will be tested on their knowledge of Australia, their expectations of living in Australia, their English language skills and attitudes towards learning English.

“New Zealand First has long advocated for such changes to be introduced in New Zealand. Like Australia, New Zealand now receives immigrants from a wide range of different traditions and there is a need to ensure that people migrating here understand and embrace our values, customs and way of life.

“Not only should New Zealand ensure that would be migrants can integrate with the rest of society, we should also actively assist integration through the introduction of a civics education programme for all new migrants.

“We must learn from the mistakes of others and actively work to ensure that migrant communities integrate with our society. Integration is the key factor in achieving social cohesion,” said Mr Brown.

ENDS

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