The Supreme Court of Philippines has recognized heart ailments in seafarers as work-related and compensable due to their risky working conditions at sea. Companies often deny liability, attributing conditions to lifestyle choices. However, long years of service and heavy responsibilities can contribute to heart diseases. The harsh working environment at sea poses risks.
The Maritime Labour Convention 2006 has proposed new amendments to improve seafarers’ living and working conditions. These changes, open for consultation, aim to address lessons learned from the Covid-19 pandemic. The amendments focus on seafarers’ health, diet, financial protection, and connectivity with loved ones. Feedback on the proposed changes is welcome until January 22.
The International Seafarers’ Welfare & Assistance Network (ISWAN) reported a surge in seafarers seeking help for violence, bullying, and discrimination on ships. Calls to the helpline increased due to crew abandonment, mental health issues, and abuse at work. The industry faces challenges like fake recruitment agencies, harassment, and discrimination, with reports of abuse rising by 28%.
India has issued a warning to seafarers and ship owners, advising them to avoid traveling to Syria and to stay away from the country’s ports. Crew change operations should be rescheduled, and security measures on board vessels should be enhanced to prevent potential risks. The situation in Syria remains unpredictable.
The US Coast Guard and the crew of the orange juice tanker Orange Ocean rescued solo sailor Kirill Vladimirovich Mikhaylov 420 miles north of Puerto Rico. The sailor’s vessel burst into flames and sank, prompting a swift response from Coast Guard Sector San Juan and the AMVER network.
The International Seafarers’ Welfare and Assistance Network’s SeafarerHelp helpline has seen a surge in calls regarding abandonment, mental health issues, and abuse at sea. The rise in cases highlights the struggles faced by seafarers, including unpaid wages and fraudulent recruitment. YachtCrewHelp also reported an increase in contractual problems, underscoring the need for better support.
A group of seafarers in the Philippines raised concerns about DMW Assistant Secretary Jerome Pampolina’s involvement in drafting the IRR of the Magna Carta for Filipino Seafarers. The CSP pointed out his past association with a law firm representing manning agencies, urging him to step back for transparency.
The Dutch Coast Guard faced challenges in the North Sea during a severe storm, rescuing a cargo ship named Valday drifting towards the shore near Rotterdam. Despite crew injuries and difficult weather, they managed to airlift an injured crewmember to safety and secure a towline, ensuring the ship’s safe return to port.
Bikram S. Bhatia’s PhD dissertation at the World Maritime University uncovered discrepancies in seafarers’ work/rest hour reporting within the shipping industry. Using the ITFRAM, his research highlighted seafarers’ record adjustments and PSC officers’ high compliance rates. The study emphasized the need for systemic changes to enhance safety and fairness in the industry.
The Indian Coast Guard successfully rescued 12 seafarers stranded in the Arabian Sea after their vessel sank. With assistance from the Pakistan Maritime Security Agency, the crew was located and found to be in good health. This collaborative effort highlights the commitment to maritime safety and security in the region.
The third meeting of the Joint ILO-IMO Tripartite Working Group in Geneva adopted Guidelines on Fair Treatment of Seafarers detained in connection with alleged crimes. These guidelines aim to protect the rights and interests of seafarers during investigations and detention. They will be presented to the IMO Legal Committee in March 2025 for adoption.
The recent survey on disparities within the seafarer community revealed alarming rates of psychological and sexual harassment among women and LGBTQ+ members. The lack of DEI training for senior ranks was also identified as a concern. Despite challenges, there were positive aspects, highlighting the need for a more inclusive maritime industry.
ClassNK has launched new E-Learning courses on maritime cyber security through its ‘ClassNK Academy’ platform. With the increasing risks of cyber-attacks in the evolving maritime industry, it is crucial for ship operators to have a solid understanding of cyber security. The courses aim to deepen participants’ knowledge and skills to better protect ship systems.
The Department of Migrant Workers predicts a rise in job opportunities for Filipino seafarers with the expansion of MSC Crewing Services Philippines and Philippine Transmarine Carriers. DMW Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac is optimistic about the benefits for seafarers. MSC Cruises plans to create 10,000 jobs for Filipinos, acknowledging their vital role in guest experiences.
Captain Ian Finley, a respected maritime professional with decades of experience, was honored with the prestigious International Maritime Prize for 2023. Recognized for his contributions to maritime legislation and international cooperation, Captain Finley’s dedication to advancing maritime goals was commended by the IMO Secretary-General. His acceptance speech highlighted the importance of collaboration.
