The Minister for Economic Development, Hon. Allan Bell MHK has agreed that Sheep Shearers coming to the Island can continue to do so under improvements to the Points Based System used to assess immigration rights to the Island. Changes in the United Kingdom have meant that sheep shearers will no longer be able to apply to come under the scheme and temporary arrangements have been put in place from 1st April for 12 months to accommodate these workers access into the UK. Announcing the Manx changes Mr Bell said: “These workers provide a vital service, and help protect the welfare of farm animals; we clearly cannot be without them. I note the temporary measures taken in the UK to help mitigate this problem, but I am pleased that the decisions taken here will provide a more positive outcome, by giving certainty for the next three years whilst a permanent solution can be worked out in both jurisdictions.” Under the Manx arrangements, all normal vetting processes under the Points Based System for immigration will continue to operate, however in respect of this small category of workers all fees have been withdrawn for the next three years. In the UK it has been decided, for this year only, that Sheep Shearers can enter the country outside of the normal immigration rules, and without normal checks or administration processes taking place. Mr Bell’s decision also impacts upon sponsors licensed under the Points Based System to bring sheep shearers to the Island, who had already gained their licences under the previous arrangements. “It is important that we maintain important immigration processes” Mr Bell said, “but we should be mindful that changes in the UK could have an impact upon the profitability of contractors in this sector, as our UK counterparts will not experience the same level of fees this year. For this reason, I have approved that a full refund will be paid to those relevant agricultural contractors already coming under the Points Based System in respect of licences already granted by my Department. Protection and growth of the Island’s economy remains my primary focus.” Commenting on this decision by the Minister for Economic Development, Acting Chief Veterinary Officer, Richard Ashworth said: “I welcome this Ministerial decision. Sheep shearers from the Antipodes and more locally, are highly experienced, motivated and efficient. Their annual visits to the Island are essential as service providers within a very important process. Successfully completing the annual wool clip is integral to the economy of the sheep industry, and ensures the continued welfare of wool breeds during the summer months.” ENDS