provides other workers access to the New Zealand labour market and aims to better protect the rights of these workers. A review of the RSE policy in 2010 concluded that overall it had been a success, providing employers with access to a reliable and stable seasonal workforce. The review did, however, raise concerns about a lack of awareness and understanding of workers' rights. The Department of Labour has provided additional resources and continues to monitor the situation. The "Silver Fern" policies, implemented in 2010, allow eligible, skilled young people to enter New Zealand and work towards gaining residence. Although the number of migrants approved for residence has remained relatively static since 2007, the global economic downturn has had a significant impact on migration, particularly temporary migrants. The downturn and a rise in unemployment have put pressure on the Government to ensure New Zealanders get jobs ahead of temporary migrant workers. Some temporary workers have been unable to renew their visas, despite already being employed, because labour market tests indicated that suitable New Zealand workers were available. The Government has continued to accept refugees for resettlement under its annual refugee quota programme of around 750 refugees each year. since 2007, New Zealand has accepted more than 3000 refugees. although the geographic mix of source countries has shifted over the past five years with an increased focus on South East Asia, the refugee quota programme continues to include some refugees from other source regions such as Africa and the Middle East. Government initiatives have focused on the importance of successful settlement and providing more support to migrants and refugees. This has included: the development of a national settlement strategy and action plan; regional settlement strategies and action plans for Auckland and Wellington; the establishment of 18 local settlement support New Zealand services; the establishment of a settlement support network; the opening of migrant resource centres; the launch of local newcomers’ networks; and the development of a national refugee resettlement strategy. Priorities for 2012 • Approve and begin to implement the New Zealand Refugee Resettlement Strategy. • Ensure international human rights treaty obligations are met in decision making by immigration staff. 18