New Caledonia's government has granted special status to 4,000 Filipino workers who will work on the Southern Goro Nickel mining project.
Foreign-owned companies can now employ staff for up to 60 hours a week to construct the Goro joint venture with the Canadian Inco company.
The government said working conditions will be strictly supervised to ensure the special labour framework is respected.
The mass recruitment of foreigners has upset some unions who say employment opportunities should be reserved for local workers.
