Seafarers thanked SUR FERO for solidarity

Today, Inspectors from the Far Eastern Regional Organization of the Seafarers' Union of Russia inspected the working and living conditions on board the MV Caravos Glory. 

The SUR FERO Chairman Nikolay Sukhanov noted that the bulk carrier has two conflicting documents: the seafarers' employment agreement with the shipowner and the contract with a Manila crewing agency, which contain different working conditions. 

The crew of the vessel, which is moored at the coal terminal berth of Vostochny Port, includes 20 Filipinos. According to Nikolay Sukhanov, the fleet of the company that owns the bulk carrier has a collective bargaining agreement, but for some reason, such a document was not on board the MV Caravos Glory. 

"The seafarers' employment agreement specifies fairly good wages and compensation, meeting the requirements of maritime unions, meaning $1,836 is the salary of an AB Seaman, and $116,000 is the insurance payout for the next of kin in the event of a worker's death on a voyage. In fact, an AB seaman receives $1,195, and the death compensation is $50,000," the SUR FERO Chairman clarified. 

In this regard, at the request of the seafarers, the SUR FERO sent the shipowner a proposal to sign a collective bargaining agreement with the maritime union. 

The crew thanked the inspectors for their clarification regarding the documentation available on board, as well as for the invitation to spend their off-duty time at the International Marine Club of Nakhodka, where they could take a free bus upon the captain's request. 

They observed that solidarity within the maritime fleet is crucial, as it enhances the capacity to accomplish shared objectives. The "Maritime Unions Herald" magazines and books in English on the rights of seafarers working on flags of convenience ships were also delivered on board the vessel. 

Photo: SUR FERO