Port Of Dover Refuses Welfare Check Onboard P&O Ferries: ITF Seafarers

Officials at the Port of Dover yesterday refused access to ITF Inspectors who were present in order to investigate welfare issues that had been raised by replacement crew members on board P&O Ferries’ vessels in the port. ITF Inspectors have ISPS (International Ship and Port Facility Security) code clearance, which enables them to enter all UK ports and board all vessels in UK waters where seafarers request assistance.

Despite emailing ahead of time as a courtesy and completing the online security course required, the Port Police refused the inspectors access on the day, on the basis that they had no advance warning of the inspectors’ visit. The inspectors are not obliged to provide prior warning to ports or vessel owners of impending visits to inspect vessels or investigate abuse of seafarers’ rights.

The inspectors say that the port officials phoned P&O Ferries while the inspectors were present, awaiting a decision on their access. One of the inspectors, Tommy Molloy, commented that: “As an ITF Inspector in the UK for 17 years this is the first time I have been refused access to a UK port to investigate crew welfare issues.”

P&O Ferry Docked
Image Credits: itfseafarers.org

“Experience shows us that if non-compliant employers are tipped off to our inspections, often crew members get threatened and incriminating documentation goes missing. Our inspections are random by nature and by necessity.”

ITF General Secretary Stephen Cotton said: “P&O Ferries have shown that they have no regard for the law, it’s staggering that the Port of Dover would prevent access to ITF Inspectors who are simply there to check on crew welfare and the safety of the ships.”

“ITF Inspectors across the world are at the frontline of protecting safety standards for seafarers and the vessels they crew. We have grave reservations about why they would be denied access, especially following MCA detentions related to safety concerns and crew familiarity of the vessels.”

“We call on the Secretary of State for Transport Grant Shapps to find answers as to why our inspectors were blocked, and give a commitment that it won’t happen again,” said Cotton.

The ITF has notified the UK Maritime and Coastguard Agency about the incident as a violation of the ISPS Code.

Reference: itfseafarers.org

Disclaimer :
The information contained in this website is for general information purposes only. While we endeavour to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the website or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained on the website for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.

In no event will we be liable for any loss or damage including without limitation, indirect or consequential loss or damage, or any loss or damage whatsoever arising from loss of data or profits arising out of, or in connection with, the use of this website.

Do you have info to share with us ? Suggest a correction

Latest Shipping News You Would Like:

Get the Latest Maritime News Delivered to Your Inbox!

Our free, fast, and fun newsletter on the global maritime industry, delivered everyday.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *