The UK government has taken a significant step in safeguarding the rights and welfare of seafarers with the launch of the Seafarers’ Charter. Thousands of seafarers will now be guaranteed fair wages, proper rest periods, and suitable training thanks to this new initiative.
The charter, supported by major ferry companies such as DFDS, Condor Ferries, Brittany Ferries, and Stena, is a crucial part of the government’s Nine-point plan. Its motive is to protect seafarers and enhance employment protections, ensuring they are paid and treated fairly, regardless of their flag or nationality.
The need for such a charter became evident after P&O Ferries’ controversial decision to terminate nearly 800 staff without prior consultation or notice last year. The UK government’s response to this incident includes comprehensive measures to safeguard the well-being of seafarers and to prevent similar incidents in the future.
In conjunction with this initiative, the French government is also launching a similar charter. Both nations are committed to collaborating on improving working conditions for those employed in the Channel, acknowledging the importance of protecting seafarers’ rights across borders.
In addition to the Seafarers’ Charter, the UK government has implemented the Seafarers’ Wages Act, which ensures that seafarers regularly entering the UK are paid at least the equivalent of the UK National Minimum Wage.
Moreover, to address exploitative practices by rogue employers, the government plans to create a statutory code of practice. The code will clearly state that employers must not use threats of dismissal to pressure employees into accepting new terms, emphasizing the need for honest and open discussions with employees and representatives.
The Seafarers’ Charter includes several core elements, such as paying seafarers for overtime at a rate of at least 1.25 times the basic hourly rate, providing adequate training and development, offering indefinite contracts, enabling access to social security benefits, and ensuring suitable rest periods and roster patterns.
The introduction of the Seafarers’ Charter has received widespread support from ferry companies, with DFDS, Condor Ferries, and Brittany Ferries expressing their endorsement of the initiative. They believe in upholding the highest standards for seafarers’ wages and working conditions and aim to promote fair treatment across the maritime sector.
The launch of the Seafarers’ Charter represents a significant milestone in the UK government’s commitment to protecting seafarers’ rights and welfare. By enlisting the support of prominent ferry companies and collaborating with France, the UK seeks to set a positive example in ensuring the well-being of those working at sea.
Source: Gov[Dot]UK
