8 Apr 2009

Migrant-locals tension on rise - worker advocate

9:21 am on 8 April 2009

Workplace tension between migrant workers and New Zealand workers is said to be growing as the recession pushes up unemployment.

Migrant worker advocate Dennis Maga says some migrant workers are already being treated as scapegoats for the recession.

Mr Maga says plans by the Government to clamp down on the number of migrant visas has started an important debate.

He says some unions and employers are responsible for the tension between workers.

Migrant workers have made a real contribution to the country, he says.