Solomon Islands urges Australia to adopt temporary visa scheme

11/05/2008 18:53:35

The Solomon Islands says Australia should adopt a temporary visa scheme for unskilled Pacific Islanders to do seasonal work in Australia.

The Australian government is considering such a scheme to alleviate skill shortages, particulary in the agricultural and mining sectors.

The Prime Minister of the Solomon Islands Derek Sikua says he would like up to a thousand visas granted for his country.

He says the scheme should be broad to give opportunity to some of the island's semi-skilled and skilled carpenters, electricians, plumbers and mechanics.

Mr Sikua says these people can gain experience in Australia and then bring those skills back to the Solomon Islands.

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