NEWS FROM THE CELTIC LEAGUE
The IMO responded to our query about working conditions and standards for seafarers in terms ‘most diplomatic’.
We had written to the body earlier this month (see link) and whilst recognising that the ILO has primacy in this area we queried if the issue of such standards did not have a wider implication for safety at sea (which is under the purview of the IMO).
https://www.celticleague.net/news/imo-queried-over-weak-labour-standard-for-seafarers/
As expected the reply did come from the IMO’s Maritime Safety Division however it seems they are unwilling to transgress onto ILO ‘turf’.
The main point of their reply (from Assistant Secretary General A Winbow) is set out below:
“I note the information provided in the correspondence to the Isle of Man government and can confirm that the international positions on issues such as conditions of employment; crew accommodation; health protection and welfare are under the purview of the International Labour Organisation. The Member Government parties to the Maritime Labour Convention 2006 adopted that Convention with the full support of national shipowners’ associations and seafarers’ trade unions so it is not appropriate for IMO to comment on its provisions”
As usual a prompt reply from the ILO with whom readers of CL news will recall we had positive engagement on the migrant rescue issue earlier this years.
Meanwhile a response from the Manx government is still awaited.
Related link:
https://www.celticleague.net/news/crew-conditions-iom-ship-register/
J B Moffatt (Mr)
Director of Information
Celtic League
15/07/15
THE CELTIC LEAGUE INFORMATION SERVICE
The Celtic League was established in 1961and has branches in the six Celtic Countries. It works to promote cooperation between these countries and campaigns on a broad range of political, cultural and environmental matters. It highlights human rights abuse, monitors all military activity and focuses on socio-economic issues
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