UN Criticises Irish Work Permit Scheme For Foreign Fishers

The ITF has welcomed a letter from United Nations special rapporteurs to the Irish government that criticises its work permit scheme for non-European workers in the fishing industry. The ITF has long campaigned against the scheme for non-European Economic Area (EEA) nationals, saying that it leads to “modern-day slavery” on board Irish trawlers.

Fishing vessels_new banner_EN
Representation Image – Credits: imo.org

Since the permits were introduced, the ITF has found dozens of cases of migrant fishers paid well below the minimum wage rate and made to work dangerously long hours, as well as suffering industrial injury. The workers are often afraid to leave exploitative employers for fear of arrest and deportation. In 2018, the ITF referred 12 migrant fishers on Irish boats to Irish police as suspected victims of trafficking.

The UN letter to the Irish government backs these concerns, saying that the scheme is: “not in line with international law and standards related to trafficking in persons and the human rights of migrants”.

The ITF coordinator for the UK and Ireland Ken Fleming commented: “This is another vindication of what the ITF’s been saying since this doomed scheme was brought in … We said this scheme would lead to modern day slavery, it has. We said it would lead to human trafficking, it has. When will the Irish government do the right thing and end this scheme, and work with us on a fair system that works?”

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.

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.

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

About Author

Marine Insight News Network is a premier source for up-to-date, comprehensive, and insightful coverage of the maritime industry. Dedicated to offering the latest news, trends, and analyses in shipping, marine technology, regulations, and global maritime affairs, Marine Insight News Network prides itself on delivering accurate, engaging, and relevant information.

About Author

Marine Insight News Network is a premier source for up-to-date, comprehensive, and insightful coverage of the maritime industry. Dedicated to offering the latest news, trends, and analyses in shipping, marine technology, regulations, and global maritime affairs, Marine Insight News Network prides itself on delivering accurate, engaging, and relevant information.

Article Footer Banner
Article Footer Banner

Subscribe To Our Newsletters

By subscribing, you agree to our Privacy Policy and may receive occasional deal communications; you can unsubscribe anytime.

Web Stories

Leave a Reply

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