Updates from around the globe on the ITF’s work to build a fairer, safer and more just world for seafarers. Our news section covers issues affecting all seafarers, wherever they may be, and what we’re doing to improve seafarers’ lives and jobs, now and in the future.
News
Seafarers set to judge welfare awards
Seafarers are to take part for the first time in judging the International Seafarers’ Welfare Awards 2019.
Thirty migrants rescued in the English Channel
British lifeboats and Border Force vessels have rescued over 30 migrants and refugees, including a child, off Dover, Kent as they were trying to cross the English Channel to England in a dangerousl
UN criticises Irish work permit scheme for foreign fishers
The ITF has welcomed a letter from United Nations special rapporteurs to the Irish government that criticises its work permit scheme for non-European workers in the fishing industry.
Maritime crime remains a concern
The incidence of crime at sea and in ports, including armed robbery and piracy, continues to pose a threat to seafarers and shipping in many “hot spots”.
Seafarers stand united in the Arab World
In early February, the ITF with the ITF Arab World regional office, organised a four day seminar in Tangiers, Morocco, bringing together representatives from affiliated unions in Morocco, Algeria,
US fines tanker company $2m for pollution cover-up
A Louisiana court has fined a tanker company USD2 million and sentenced it to four years’ probation after it was convicted of illegally discharging oil from one of its tankers and then attempting t
International solidarity with sacked Australian crew
Maritime unions in Canada have taken solidarity action in support of colleagues in Australia sacked after an Australian shipping company decided to replace them with foreign crew on flag of conveni
BHP ignores pleas to help starving crew
A seafarer aboard an 80,000-tonne bulk carrier, the Villa Deste, contacted the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) pleading for help.
Battle for Australian seafarers jobs spreads globally
On the back of the recent sacking at sea of Australian seafarers by BHP and BlueScope facilitated by the Morrison government, workers and the Maritime Union of Australia have set up a ‘Save Austral
ITF solidarity with Belgium strike
“On behalf of the 18 million transport workers of the ITF, I send support and solidarity to the workers of Belgium in their campaign to win a fair share of their countries wealth.
Wage theft exposed on BlueScope chartered ship
Wage theft aboard a BlueScope chartered foreign-flagged ship in Port Kembla has been exposed after intervention from the International Transport Workers’
Pirates and armed robbers still a threat off West Africa
Armed robbers continue to pose a threat to seafarers and shipping off West Africa, despite patrols by local navies.