The global union federation’s condemnation came as the PCA sought to use the courts to close down the ITF-affiliated Unión de Capitanes y Oficiales de Cubierta (UCOC - Panamanian Tugboat Captains’ Union).
The Panama-flagged Red Duchess was arrested in Rotterdam, with the crew not paid their full wages owed and with no funds to get home.
Hosted by the Sindicato de Choferes de Camioneros the event brought together activists from 13 countries and 28 ITF unions from all transport sectors, who spent a packed week finding ways to strengthen unionism and secure victories for workers and their families.
A new system was implemented by management before workers had the time to legally review the court decision and its implications; this is at the heart of the matter.
Over the past three years the IMO has redefined the concept of safe manning of vessels and as a result, as of January, conditions should change. Flag states and shipowners must now safely and transparently meet the unique operational and administrative needs of each vessel.
The European Transport Workers’ Federation (ETF) and the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) have supported Belgian union protest action, which culminates in a general strike this Monday, 15 December.
The powerful new film, Dark Side of the Black Sea, has been made by ITF (International Transport Workers’ Federation) member the Marine Employees Solidarity Association (DAD-DER) to expose the number of lives being put at risk by the use of substandard ships.
‘Dark Side of the Black Sea’ is focused specifically on the region, but aims to draw attention to the wider issue of the use of substandard vessels and the risk to the lives of seafarers throughout the industry.
The International Transport Workers' Federation (ITF) is calling on the Australian Government to improve labour regulations after the Federal Court found two Fijian workers had been exploited.
And, in a first in the region, the German union ver.di signed a collective agreement with the German shipowner.
