29 Oct 2012

Indian group aims to make workers aware of rights

9:10 pm on 29 October 2012

A new group set up to protect Indian workers in New Zealand says many immigrants are being held to ransom by employers who have a huge influence over whether they can stay in the country.

The Indian Workers Association was launched in Auckland on Sunday.

Spokesperson Mukhtiar Singh says though New Zealand has good labour laws, many workers from overseas are not aware of them or are afraid to speak out.

He says some employers take advantage of the power they have over workers because they sponsor the visa that allows them to remain in the country.

Mr Singh says the association wants to make the workers aware of their rights and allow them to get help.