Hopes of a speedy Government response to the critical labour shortage on farms seem to have been dashed.

The Government is due to review to review the system of work permits for all sectors. The dependence on foreign workers across farming and processing means it is an acute issue for the sector.

The Department of Agriculture was to submit its views in April, but it is emerging that an interdepartmental review will not be complete until June. This pushes back the timetable for any potential relaxation of the permit procedure.

Labour shortages have become more pronounced since the New Year. While the issues in the dairy sector have been well aired, they pale in comparison with the shortages in the labour-intensive horticulture sector. Vegetable, fruit, and mushroom growers cannot find enough staff members to keep up with the work. Meat processors are also reporting staffing issues.

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