“A cash-for-residency scam exposed by a whistleblower is just the tip of the iceberg”, said Dr Prasad, Labour’s Immigration Spokesperson.

“I have had constituents, friends and acquaintances tell of many examples where either an intermediary, a business owner or a registered practitioner has engaged in job selling. However in all cases no one was prepared to allow me to make their information public or take it to the Immigration Authorities for investigation.

“I can understand their reluctance while their own applications for residence were being considered

“What is surprising is the ingenuity of those abusing our immigration system with their fraudulent methods for collecting illegal payments, not all of which takes place in New Zealand,” said Dr Prasad.

“From what I gather Immigration is aware of these activities but is unable to collect enough evidence to prosecute.

While Immigration Minister Michael Woodhouse is looking to increase sanctions on offenders that only displays a lack of understanding of the problem and the way the abuse is being carried out.

“Mr Woodhouse has to immediately establish an inquiry into the abuse of our immigration system with the appropriate immunity granted to those who come forward.

“Abuse of the immigration system is now endemic and it requires bold solutions to restore its credibility and the Government must act now.”