The Minister for Safety, Security and Home Affairs, Jeffrey Ellick, has emphasized the need for a strategic approach to address immigration issues on St Helena. He noted that previous efforts were too focused on border protection and operational matters, neglecting the goal of increasing the island's population, particularly its working-age residents.
In late 2023, Minister Ellick directed officials to explore options for improving the immigration situation. The island faces challenges due to an aging population and a shrinking workforce, which contribute to economic decline and labor shortages across various sectors. Reforms in immigration policy and legislation are seen as essential steps toward addressing these issues.
Minister Ellick stated: “Changes to immigration legislation and practice alone will not be the magic bullet that makes the necessary difference to the population challenges that we face. These changes can however facilitate entry and welcome immigrants, whilst also maintaining border security. This government is committed to making the changes needed to attract people to come to St Helena to work, invest and positively contribute to life on our island. Other policies across SHG will also be amended in line with the immigration policy to help deliver this.”
The draft Immigration Policy has been completed and is open for final public comment. It can be accessed online at www.sainthelena.gov.sh/government/public-information/ from 12:00 on Thursday, April 4th. Physical copies are available at the Public Library and Post and Customer Services Centre in Jamestown.
Public meetings are scheduled over the coming weeks for discussions on the draft policy:
- Monday 08 April 2024: Jamestown Community Centre
- Wednesday 10 April 2024: Kingshurst Community Centre
- Thursday 11 April 2024: Harford Community Centre
- Tuesday 16 April 2024: Half Tree Hollow Community Centre
- Wednesday 17 April 2024: Blue Hill Community Centre
- Thursday 18 April 2024: Sandy Bay Community Centre
Meetings will occur from 19:30 to 21:00. For questions or comments regarding the draft policy before these meetings, contact Derek Henry, Head of Infrastructure and Strategies, via email at Derek.Henry@sainthelena.gov.sh.
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