The National Association of Agricultural Contractors (NAAC) has announced that international sheep shearers have been granted a special concession to be able to enter the UK for 2021 and 2022.
Sheep shearers from overseas offer a vital source of experienced labour and whilst it will remain difficult for many to travel into the UK this year due to Covid-19 pandemic restrictions, the concession will allow for a proportion to come and assist UK contractors for the next two seasons.
To ensure that shearers, wool handlers and farmers can cooperate safely, the NAAC - with the support of the FUW and other industry bodies - has liaised with the UK Government to publish a revised Covid Shearing Checklist.
Farmers are encouraged to get in touch with their shearers early to plan work and ensure that shearing can take place as smoothly as possible in line with the Covid guidance. Anyone struggling to find shearers can also use the Shearing Register.
For further information, please contact Jill Hewitt, NAAC Chief Executive via email: