[Published on Saturday, Jan 31]

BY JUNELYN KELLY

The Solomon Islands government has officially endorsed the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) Scheme as a vital component of its robust partnership with Australia.

This confirmation underscores the significant economic and social benefits the scheme brings to the island nation, a statement from PALM on Tuesday last week said.

Since its inception in 2018, the PALM scheme has demonstrably contributed to the Solomon Island’s economy.

In the past years alone, remittance from workers deployed to Australia soared to SBD 507 million, with over 11, 000 Solomon Islanders participating in the program, the statement said.

During a recent pre-departure briefing Deputy Secretary of MFAET, Hickson George lauded Solomon Islands workers, highlighting their “hero at work” brand.

Hickson also praised their work ethic, reliability, and positive attitudes, which have earned them a commendable reputation.

Australia High Commissioner HE, Jeff Roach echoed these sentiments, thanking returning workers for their ambassadorial role and encouraging new participants to uphold the positive image.

The government emphasized that labour mobility initiatives like PALM are crucial to strengthen livelihoods and deepen the enduring friendship between Solomon Islands and Australia.

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