19 Mar 2024

RSE workers subjected to unlawful wage deductions

From , 6:03 am on 19 March 2024
RSE workers So'o Fala (left) from Samoa and Joel Bruno Lee from the Solomon Islands, are celebrating Christmas by the apple orchards of Hawke’s Bay this year.

Photo: RNZ / Tom Kitchin

Recognised seasonal workers in New Zealand have taken their former employer to court after wage deductions for some weeks reduced their wages to zero.

The New Zealand Herald says court documents show money was taken out for insurance, wet weather gear, storage and missing kitchen equipment from their hostel. 

The case which is currently before the Employement Court dates back to 2020 and involves three Solomon Islands workers who joined the RSE scheme under 'Pick Hawke's Bay incorporated'. 

Acting Council of Trade Union president Rachel Mackintosh told RNZ Pacific's Caleb Fotheringham the workers have been subjected to flagrant breaches of their minimum entitlements.