Seafarers employed on Adriatic ships will initiate a 48-hour strike on June 3 and 4, following a resolution from the Panhellenic Seamen’s Federation (PNO). This action is anticipated to disrupt the Patras-Italy routes, demanding appropriate ship staffing to combat systematic staff overwork and enhance safety at sea.
The Federation has communicated the staffing shortage on these routes in a letter to the Minister of Shipping and Insular Policy, highlighting that this situation endangers not only the seafarers but also the safety of passengers and maritime navigation overall.
In the letter, signed by PNO General Secretary Manolis Tsikalakis, specific proposals for minimum crew requirements by ship operation sector are outlined. The following staffing is suggested:
Manning Proposal:
Deck:
– 1 Lotus
– 2 Submasters
– 12 Sailors
– 2 Naval Engineers
Engine Room:
– 4 Engineers
– 1 Cleaner
PNO emphasizes that these staffing levels are essential not only to mitigate grueling overtime but also to “safeguard lives and ensure safety at sea.”
The letter also highlights serious concerns regarding the Italian-flagged Grimaldi Lines vessels operating on the Patras-Italy route, noting that Greek seafarers are being hired for inappropriate roles, irrespective of their qualifications. The Federation urges for an immediate correction of this practice based on the certifications held by Greek seafarers.
Shipping: Ongoing Issues
PNO points out that significant issues persist within the shipping sector, primarily due to the actions of the Association of Passenger Shipping Enterprises (SEEN), including:
– Crews’ overnight accommodations
– The elimination of “express” routes, which impose undue pressure on staff.
The Federation warns that without immediate solutions to these critical issues, further mobilizations will follow. The letter states:
“We demand the reinstatement of all mentioned issues and wish to inform you that if unresolved, PNO will continue its union actions until our problems are addressed.”
This strike coincides with heightened passenger traffic leading into the summer, likely causing disruptions to both passenger and commercial operations. Nevertheless, the seafarers are resolute in defending their essential labor and social security rights, insisting that ships operating with insufficient crew cannot be maintained.
Ask Me Anything
Explore Related Questions
