Member of Parliament (MP) for Small Malaita, Hon. Rick Hou says he is thrilled to see a significant increase in the Pacific Labour Mobility (PALM) Scheme.
“From just 1,500 people both in Australia and New Zealand in 2018, it is reported that we reach nearly 10,000 people by the end of 2025,” Hou said when speaking last month during the Motion of Sine-Die.
He said the scheme is addressing two basic fundamental issues for Solomon Islands and they are: “Unemployment” and “Household incomes”.
He added that the financial returns are very impressive with nearly $300 million remittances to date.
“This is more than foreign exchange earnings through other industries, even tourism,” Hou said.
“Many families are now converting this foreign income source to meet their needs.
“School fees, food, build and improve family homes, and also business ventures,” he added.
“Indeed, this source of income is empowering hundreds of families throughout the country.”
While the benefits are clear, Hou also notes the social challenges it creates, particularly its impact on family cohesion.
He then calls for government-facilitated support services.
“I therefore urge the government to facilitate pastoral support, counseling and social reintegration services,” the former Prime Minister said.
“Long term, the scheme should be made sustainable with reduced costs for first time participants and a robust recruitment agency that can oversee ethical, fair and effective placement,” he added.
By AGNES MENANOPO
Solomon Star, Honiara
