I am a happy migrant from the UK of seven years.
Our parents decided to join us to be with their children and grandchildren.
They spent over a $1 million on a house and furniture at the Mount and have contributed to the local economy by around $80,000 per annum.
My father turned
90 a couple of weeks ago. He fought in World War II for us all in India and Burma. He sacrificed five years of his life fighting alongside Anzacs so that he and all law-abiding citizens could choose the life they want for themselves and their children.
They were deported last February after many appeals to government. They were forcibly removed after immigration and this government decided that their contribution was not enough to stay here, although we all (family) live here.
I have been doing some research over the past three months. Around 800 people since my parents were deported or have been told to leave. As far as I can tell most of them were from a similar background. They in total have spent (estimate) $40 million in purchasing properties. And a further $40 million on food, medicine, rates, etc.
Why are people like my parents being told to leave the country when they are contributing and not "taking?"
If we let more retirees into the country and can prove they are self sufficient, we can even label it "retirement tourism".
The boost to the economy would be massive.
Peter A Dalby, Pyes Pa
This week's letter will receive a complimentary Lotto ticket from Tauranga City Lotto shop, 44 Grey St.
