RMT Slams UK Government for Inaction on Seafarer Protections Amidst New French Laws

The Maritime union, RMT, has criticized the Tory government for its lack of action in implementing mandatory protections for seafarers, contrasting it with the decisive steps taken by the French government. Starting this Sunday, new French laws will require ferry operators such as P&O to pay their seafarers the French national minimum wage and enforce limits on their time spent onboard ships.

RMT General Secretary Mick Lynch pointed out the discrepancy between the French and UK governments, emphasizing that the UK government’s failure to introduce mandatory protections for seafarers is concerning. RMT has been advocating for robust protections for UK seafarers, including a two-week on, two-week off roster pattern for Ratings, to counteract exploitative practices by companies like P&O and Irish Ferries.

Despite RMT’s efforts, the UK government has only issued a voluntary charter and not supported cross-party amendments to the Seafarers Wages Act that would ensure safe roster patterns and other essential protections. Lynch stressed the need for mandatory legislation and strict sanctions for non-compliance with obligations to seafarers and passengers, citing the new French legislation as a positive step towards improving pay, reducing fatigue, and extending pension rights for seafarers on certain ferry routes.

Source .