BY SAMIE WAIKORI

The Member of Parliament for North New Georgia and acting Opposition Leader, John Dean Kuku, has raised serious concerns over the absence of any mention of the Labour Mobility program in the 2026 national budget.

Speaking during the parliamentary debate on Monday, MP Kuku highlighted the critical role the program plays in supporting Solomon Islanders’ livelihoods and generating foreign exchange.

Thousands of workers are engaged in Australia and New Zealand, sending remittances home to pay school fees, support families, and grow small businesses.

“Yet, in the 2026 budget speech, the Minister for Finance is silent on this area,” Kuku said.

“There are no numbers, no strategy, no budget support for training, pre-departure preparation, financial literacy, or integration of workers when they return. There is no plan to negotiate lower remittance costs or better conditions on accommodation and travel. This is a serious omission.”

He warned that labour mobility is not merely a foreign affairs issue, but a core part of the country’s economic and social strategy.

“If we give less attention to this important scheme, it may end up as modern slavery,” he cautioned.

MP Kuku urged the government to strengthen the program and provide the necessary budget support to ensure it continues to benefit Solomon Islanders and contribute to national development.

For feedback, contact: [email protected]