22 Feb 2008

Samoa worries about possible labour shortage

11:46 am on 22 February 2008

The Samoan Coconut Growers Association says it is worried that there'll be a labour shortage because too many people go to New Zealand for seasonal employment.

The New Zealand Recognised Seasonal Employers scheme that started last year enables Pacific people to work in horticulture and viticulture for several months.

The Samoa Observer says the association's comment comes as a company, Pacific Oil, was set up last month, which plans to produce coconut oil as a substitute for diesel.

Its president says he's concerned there might not be enough workers to collect the coconuts because of the opportunities in New Zealand.