7 January 2009
Action Needed to Bring in Shearers
Shearing contractors are warned that under new UK immigration laws, they need to apply immediately to bring in vital shearers from Australia and New Zealand.
A new points-based system is now in operation, which means that UK contractors must become licensed as a ‘sponsor’, before they can apply for entry clearance for shearers. This is a significant change from the previous work permits system. It is very important that contractors submit initial applications immediately to ensure that the paperwork is all in order before shearers start to travel.
The National Association of Agricultural Contractors (NAAC) has been actively involved in the process and has been successful in getting shearers listed as a shortage occupation. Commenting, Jill Hewitt, NAAC Chief Executive said, ‘For the first time, it has been recognised that overseas shearers are a vital, skilled resource supplying UK agriculture and I am delighted that, as a result of NAAC lobbying, the contractors will be able to bypass some of the immigration procedures to simplify the shearers entry. However, there will still be significant paperwork to get the new system working this year and contractors are urged to start the application process as a matter of urgency.’
NAAC shearing members have been kept up-to-date on the application process and guidance is now available for members from the NAAC office.
Incoming shearers must have the British Wool Marketing Board bronze medal (or equivalent).
FOR INFORMATION CONTACT:
Jill Hewitt, Chief Executive
Tel (Office hours) : 08456 448 750
Mobile : 07889 511245
Email: jill.hewitt@naac.co.uk
Notes for Editor
- Formed in 1893, the NAAC represents contractors in the UK who supply all types of land-based services to farmers, government, local authorities, sports and recreational facilities.
- Within its livestock membership, the NAAC has shearing members who, each spring, have to submit a number of work permit applications to bring in overseas shearers.
- A fundamental part of the skilled worker tier of the Points Based System is the shortage occupation lists, for the United Kingdom and Scotland. These are skilled occupations where the Government considers there are shortages so that it is sensible for vacancies to be filled by migrant workers from outside the European Economic Area. Migrant workers seeking to come to work in the UK score points if they are applying to work in one of these occupations.
- For information on the immigration process see: www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/employers
- Contact the NAAC