Any instance of abuse against seasonal workers in Australia is intolerable and will be addressed. This statement was made by Pat Conroy, the Australian Minister for International Development and the Pacific, during a press conference in Tonga yesterday. He responded to rising concerns regarding the mistreatment of workers involved in the PALM scheme. Conroy acknowledged Australia’s longstanding relationship with Pacific workers and emphasized that participation in the scheme is voluntary and that these countries maintain full authority over the selection of their workers sent to Australia. Currently, Mr. Conroy is in Tonga for the 53rd Pacific Island Forum (PIF) Leaders Meeting.