A report on seasonal migrant workers published this week warns that without 'the right volume of labour', some farms may become non-viable in Scotland.

The research found that an insufficient domestic workforce meant seasonal migrant workers are crucial to farms with seasonal crops. In interviews, people explained how demand, or even dependency, on seasonal migrant workers applied to farms planting and harvesting the type of crops which could not be mechanically harvested.

Most workers were employed in the fruit sector (81%) and technological solutions cannot currently solve the labour shortage gap. The report added 'the risk is that without the right volume of labour, at the right time, these types of farms may become unviable in Scotland'.

Negative consequences for businesses included downscaling business, focussing on non-agricultural activities, switching to other agricultural activities, such as cereals and livestock, and ceasing current activity.

Stakeholders and employers emphasised the need for labour to produce food to benefit local and national economies, with the ability to source local food important for environmental sustainability and food security.

The report recommended the UK Government should closely involve Scottish agricultural representatives in shaping future schemes and give sufficient notice of any changes to visa schemes. In addition, it recommended that employers should adhere to the Fair Work First Guidance by Scottish Government, treat their workers with dignity and be as clear as possible on wages and living costs.

Onsite accommodation should also continue to be upgraded, with employers asking staff for suggestions.

Rural Affairs Secretary Mairi Gougeon said: “Year after year, EU farm workers provide a massive boost to our rural economy. Seasonal staff fill vacancies that the domestic workforce are unable to and it is vital that we support workers that come to work in the sector.

READ MORE: Visas for seasonal workers issued to help labour shortage

“The report not only highlights the economic value of workers but documents their experiences and identifies key factors which may impact the wellbeing of staff during their time in Scotland. The uncertainties caused by Brexit, the pandemic and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine have clearly had an impact on seasonal staff who are now actively considering jobs within the EU.

“We will actively consider the report’s recommendations and I encourage employers, third sector organisations and the UK Government to do the same in order to safeguard the future of Scotland’s seasonal workforce.”

The research found there was a large age range of workers who responded to the survey, with around four in 10 being women. And. that large proportions of workers were from Romania, Bulgaria and Ukraine, with the most common ways of funding travel to the Scotland through savings and credit cards.

Workers said the most beneficial aspect of working in Scottish agriculture was the ability to earn a good income. Pay ranged from £8.91 to £13.75 per hour. In terms of working conditions on the farm, the vast majority (96%) of seasonal migrant workers were satisfied, including 38% very satisfied.

On average, seasonal migrant workers paid £62 per week for their accommodation and most workers (87%) were satisfied with their accommodation.