14 March 2011
SHEEP SHEARERS CAN COME TO THE UK THIS SEASON
The immigration system has changed radically this year for overseas shearers coming into the UK, including their removal from the shortage occupation list under the Points Based System.
The NAAC has been actively involved in the process and is confident that the UK will not suffer from a shortage of shearers this year.
Jill Hewitt, NAAC Chief Executive said, 'We are working closely with shearing contractors in the UK, and shearing associations in New Zealand and Australia, to try and ensure the smooth passage of sheep shearers to the UK this spring. There is no reason, with the transitional arrangements in place, to expect that there will be any problems this season.'
For full details, contractors seeking to bring in overseas shearers should contact:
Jill Hewitt, Chief Executive, National Association of Agricultural Contractors
Mobile: 07889 511245 Tel: 08456 448750 email: jill.hewitt@naac.co.uk
Notes
Founded in 1897, the NAAC is the representative organisation for contractors in the UK who supply all
types of land-based services to farmers, government, local authorities, sports and recreational facilities.
www.naac.co.uk
The NAAC estimates that 500 shearers usually come to the UK from overseas. Of a
total population, the overseas shearers cover approx. 20-25% of our national flock –
a total of 5-6 million sheep each year. Without these shearers we risk serious animal
health problems with fly strike, which in the worst cases may result in death.