Phone help for Islanders

Press, 29 January 1988, Page 2

Phone help for Islanders

Pacific Islanders wishing to find out more about their rights and obligations for temporary residency in New Zealand under the Immigration Act 1987 will be able to ring a toll-free number in Wellington over the next few days. Run by the Ministry of Pacific Island Affairs in conjunction with the Immigration Department, Freephone, (04) 734-519, aims to answer questions about the special provision called “a gift of time,” which was made under the Immigration Act, 1987. It allows those illegally living in New Zealand on October 31, to obtain a valid visitor or work permit to remain in New Zealand legally. Since the provision was made many Pacific Islanders have approached the department for new permits, but there was still some concern about those who had not done so. “I have been concerned that recent adverse publicity will result in overstayers who may qualify for permanent residence not coming forward,” said the Minister for Pacific Island Affairs, Mr Prebble. After February 9, when the Immigration Act’s special provision ceases, overstayers will be subject to court removal orders. Staffed by people fluent in Samona, Tongan, Fijian and English, the freephone runs this evening, Saturday, Sunday and Monday from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. According to the Immigration Department, those wishing to remain anonymous could do so. An immigration official would be available during the set hours for any further queries.