President Vladimir Putin has warned that Russia may target vessels from countries supporting Ukraine if attacks on its tanker fleet continue. Describing Ukrainian military actions as “piracy,” he mentioned potential countermeasures, including intensified strikes on relevant port facilities. Putin cautioned against retaliatory actions, though recent incidents have heightened tensions significantly.
Lashers at the Port of Rotterdam have begun a 48-hour strike, halting container operations to demand higher wages. Starting at 3:15 p.m. on October 8, the strike disrupts cargo handling at Europe’s busiest port. The FNV union emphasizes the crucial role of lashers, warning that operations will grind to a halt without them.
The ports of Antwerp, Zeebrugge, and Ghent are experiencing significant delays due to a work slowdown by Belgian sea pilots protesting proposed pension reforms. With pilots only available from 10 AM to 5 PM, around 70 ships are currently waiting for services, severely impacting shipping operations across the region.
Wightlink, the ferry operator serving the Isle of Wight and Hampshire, has proposed staff reductions impacting up to 50 positions as part of its efficiency project. The RMT union warns that this could jeopardize 160 jobs, threatening industrial action unless plans are retracted. Concerns over safety and service quality have been raised.
Seafarers operating ferries from Patras and Igoumenitsa began a 24-hour strike at 6 a.m. Sunday, protesting government neglect over understaffing issues. The union warns of escalating actions if demands for better working conditions are unmet. Recent court rulings declaring the strike illegal highlight a pivotal moment in Greece’s labor history.
Seafarers on ferries from Patras and Igoumenitsa will strike for 48 hours on June 3-4, citing chronic understaffing that jeopardizes safety and worsens working conditions. The Panhellenic Maritime Federation (PNO) criticized the government and employers for failing to address crew shortages, emphasizing the urgent need for improved staffing and working conditions.
Thousands of Greeks gathered in Athens demanding higher wages amidst rising living costs. A one-day strike halted ferries, flights, and trains. Despite economic growth, many struggle to cover basic needs. Workers call for significant pay raises. The government plans to raise the minimum wage but remains cautious due to high debt.
RMT seafarers at Foreland Shipping have rejected the company’s pay offer, citing dissatisfaction with only 85% of union members. The General Secretary emphasized the need for fair compensation for the skilled workforce supporting the UK Ministry of Defence. Negotiations are ongoing, but the possibility of strike action remains if a resolution is not reached.
A potential strike at India’s state-operated ports, threatening cargo operations and regional shipping, has been avoided for the second time. Six unions representing 18,000 workers set a deadline for a wage package, leading to averted industrial action. The agreement, settled after government intervention, ensures stability in the Indian economy and port operations.
Dockworkers in India are frustrated with the slow pace of wage and service reforms, leading to nationwide protests. The National Coordination Committee of Major Port & Dock Workers Federations organized demonstrations in support of unions. Despite a deadline of December 15, no action has been taken, prompting preparations for a nationwide strike.
The National Coordination Committee of six port and port workers’ associations protested in December over the slow implementation of a salary agreement by the Indian Ports Association. They threatened to strike on December 17 if the agreement was not executed, highlighting delays in negotiations and the failure to implement wage adjustments and pension benefits.
Greek ports stood empty as ships remained docked, and transportation services were disrupted due to a nationwide strike. Workers from various sectors protested low living standards and demanded higher pay, citing the impact of the 2009-2018 debt crisis. Despite government efforts to raise wages, workers feel their salaries are insufficient to cover rising costs.
Canada’s federal government stepped in on Tuesday, implementing final and binding arbitration to resolve labor disputes at ports in British Columbia and Montreal. With pressure from commerce groups and business leaders, Labour Minister Steven MacKinnon emphasized the impact on jobs, economy, and reputation. The move aims to bring back stability and resume operations.
Ongoing strikes at Canada’s ports are causing chaos, with unions and employers at odds over negotiations. Minister MacKinnon calls for urgent resolution, while the Retail Council of Canada expresses frustration. Despite warnings from CUPE against government intervention, labor experts note tough stances from employers on both coasts.
Greek seafarers’ unions representing critical ferry workers have extended their strike for two more days, demanding better wages and work regulations. The strike has disrupted most ferry services in Greece, isolating islands in the Aegean and Ionian Sea. Unions are pushing for a wage increase and changes to laws affecting crewmembers.
