The Hindu Business Line : Seafarers' woes

The meeting is supposed to be held twice a year. This is enough to indicate the kind of priority the powers-that-be attache to the welfare of seafarers. (However, last week, on the occasion of the National Maritime Day, those employed on board were eulogised as heroes.)

The recent Mumbai meeting of NWBS was presided over by Mr Shatrughan Sinha, the Shipping Minister. Mr Sinha, of course, assured the seafarers' representatives that, henceforth, meetings would be held regularly every quarter.

Even if it is assumed that the minister is a well-meaning person, much will depend on whether he returns as shipping minister (or at least his party is returned to power) after the elections.

Several issues relating to seafarers' welfare agitate the union representatives but at least two issues have emerged critical.First, the non-reimbursement of nearly Rs 93 crore of loss incurred by the Seamen's Provident Fund.

Next, the virtual emasculation of the shipping master's position in several ports, with the result the seafarers are virtually at the mercy of shipowners who, it is complained, flout with impunity the various agreements relating to seafarers' pay and perks and safety regulations on board.

The government's supervisory role, so important for the development of shipping and protection of those employed in it, has been largely diluted in pursuit of free market economy, it is pointed out.

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