Serious offenders shouldn’t get a time limit on deportation

ACT’s Immigration spokesperson Dr Parmjeet Parmar says while the Government is right to extend deportation liability, it should take it a step further and make it unlimited for serious offenders.

“We support moves to strengthen the system, and it is encouraging to see progress in this area, but the proposed extension to 20 years still falls short of what’s needed to deal with serious offending.” says Dr Parmar.

“Increasing the liability period from 10 to 20 years does not fully address the issue. When someone is granted the privilege of living in New Zealand, it comes with an expectation that they will respect our laws. When that trust is seriously breached, there must be meaningful consequences.

“I wrote to the Minister outlining that deportation liability for serious offending should be extended to an unlimited period. This would reinforce accountability, strengthen public confidence in the immigration system, and better protect the safety and cohesion of our communities.

“Residency is a privilege that must be maintained through ongoing respect for our laws and values.

“New Zealanders expect an immigration system that is fair, but also firm. That means being clear that serious criminal offending will always have consequences, regardless of when it occurs.”

Dr Parmjeet Parmar’s letter to the Minister can be found here.

The Immigration (Enhanced Risk Management) Amendment Bill is currently open for submissions.