It is saddening to note that some people would go to great lengths to gain residency in New Zealand. We have run scores of reports over the years of how false certificates of qualifications, spurious job offers and ‘marriage of convenience’ are used by migrants to hoodwink Immigration New Zealand (INZ).
Arguably some of them get through the system (the volume is too large to be perfect even for a small country like New Zealand) but those who are caught are punished. We have a report in this issue of the Auckland District Court sentencing two Fijian nationals on charges of providing false and misleading information to INZ.
The Court sentenced (on October 2) Imraan Khan to 20 months imprisonment, while Berlinda Williams was sentenced to home detention of 12 months.
Almost all new migrants who obtained permanent residence and other permits through dishonest means could be in trouble sooner or later, save for a few as aforementioned.
INZ has tightened systems and procedures and dismissed a few corrupt officials in its department some time ago but the system alone cannot eradicate such practices.
It is up to people- those indulging in foul methods should realise their folly and come in the immigration queue, just as almost all migrants do.
Indian Newslink understands that INZ constantly reviews its risk management strategy if all migrant factors have been properly addressed.
There is another threat that has emerged in recent weeks, which can put not only the immigration system but also the country to grave risks.
This concerns the movements of terrorists and their sleeper cells, compounded by hate speeches and threatened action.
According to Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbot, his country faces ‘a real threat’ from terrorist plots.
Echoing that fear, Prime Minister John Key has cautioned that New Zealand could also be a target. It is believed that New Zealand is not immune to terrorist plots, although there have been no known cases of active terrorists here.
However, security and safety measures can never be too much to bear. New Zealand is the destination for tourists, international students, businesspersons and other visitors.
INZ therefore has the arduous task of processing and approving applications for various types of visas at its worldwide offices.
It is also a fact that apart from America and Britain, countries such as Australia, New Zealand and Canada are potential targets for other unwanted elements as well.
They range from money launderers and drug traffickers to ordinary people from developing countries whose only aim to settle in these countries is to enjoy a better lifestyle and secure a better future for their children.
New Zealand must be careful. A soft touch would not help.
We should have in place a system that quickly deports people of questionable intentions trying to enter the country.
