Immigration Minister Michael Woodhouse has rejected suggestions six interpreters working for the Special Air Service have been treated unfairly, saying they have not so far applied for New Zealand residence.
Michael Woodhouse. Photo: NATIONAL PARTY
The interpreters have said their requests for asylum have been ignored by the Government, despite their being a prime target for insurgents.
Mr Woodhouse says the interpreters did send emails to both the ministers of Immigration and Defence, but they have not applied for residence.
"The office of the Minister of Defence responded in writing telling them exactly what they needed to do to apply for residence. So far, none of them have done that."
Mr Woodhouse says he is ready to receive the interpreters' applications, but he cannot say whether they would be granted residency until they apply.
The interpreters have told correspondent Jon Stephenson they wrote to Defence Minister Jonathan Coleman and Mr Woodhouse this year and were told by Mr Coleman to write again to Immigration New Zealand applying for resettlement under a specific section of the Immigration Act, but did not follow up and make that final application.
Mr Stephenson said the interpreters feel the officials have enough information about them and their work to make a decision.
