1. RSE CONFERENCE JULY 2016
Napier

2. Summary key milestones 2015/16
National Cap increased to 9500
MSD onshore seasonal work programme took another step forward
IRD introduced new procedures for first time RSE workers
Completed a Remittance pilot with two countries
Sector Workforce Engagement Programme (SWEP) established
Self Audits triggers RSE policy rethink 10 years on
Commenced Strengthening Pacific Partners (SPP) programme review
Developing websites and databases in PICs

3. RSE employers survey 2015 (Research NZ)
RSE employers are continuing to make improvements to their business practices.
More than 72 percent said they had invested in new plant and equipment this year or planned to do so next year,
67 percent had made changes or were planning changes to their health and safety practices.
Since 2007, 85 percent of RSEs have been able to expand their area under cultivation – compared with 48 percent of employers who do not use RSE workers.
This also represents a significant improvement on the 2014 result of 76 percent for RSEs. In nine out of ten cases (89 percent), participation in the RSE scheme was regarded as a contributing factor to this expansion.

4. RSE employers survey (contd)
Participation in the scheme has also meant that around four-in-five RSE employers (78 percent) have been able to employ more New Zealand workers in addition to RSE workers.
This is consistent with the findings of the 2014 survey, when this attribute was first measured (81 percent).
Of those who have been able to employ more New Zealand workers, on average each employer has been able to employ four additional permanent workers and 18 seasonal workers as a result of their participation in the scheme

5. Key concerns /issues Pastoral Care concerns
Increase in Healthcare problems
Insurance cover issues – pre existing conditions
Absconding

6. MBIE key priorities for 2016/17
RSE Team focus:
increased support for MSD NZers first programmes
Complete second stage of the remittance project
Increasing vigilance on Pastoral Care
Address Insurance issues and Health care –on shore, offshore
Upgrade and streamline the RSE Instructions
Work with industry to review governance structures
Complete the rollout of the PIC databases
Expanding our focus to other sectors (Trades/Fisheries/???)
E-visa online service

7. Questions