Maritime Labour Convention the ITF perspective

1. Maritime Labour Conventionthe ITF perspective Jon Whitlow, Secretary ITF Seafarers’ Section

2. The Maritime Labour Convention • The Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 has two primary purposes: To ensure “decent work” for seafarers; To establish a “level-playing field” – fairer competition;

3. Key Outcomes for ITF • A “seafarers bill of rights”. • Comprehensive flag and port State control. • Maritime labour certificate and declaration of maritime labour compliance. • No more favourable treatment. • Wide definition of a seafarer. • Simplified amendment process. • Establishment of special tripartite committee – monitoring and amendment role.

4. Outcomes • The MLC can improve the living and working conditions of seafarers. • It provides an important tool for ITF inspectors and ITF affiliates. • Seafarers will need to be made aware of their rights. • The MLC and the ILO Committee will provide a forum to challenge flag States. • The MLC provides a tool to change the status quo.

5. Key Issues for the ITF • Establish enforceable minimum labour standards for seafarers. • Maintain principles in existing ILO Conventions. • Definition of seafarers. • Protect seafarers fundamental rights – Articles III and IV. • Inclusion of social security protection. • Real enforcement and real control.

6. Important Definitions for the ITF • Seafarer • Ship • Shipowner • Competent authority • Seafarers’ employment agreement • Seafarer recruitment and placement service

7. Welfare of seafarers • Title 4 is quite important for ITF • Medical care on board ship and ashore • Shipowners’ liability • Health and safety protection and accident prevention • Access to shore-based welfare facilities • Social security

8. ITF activities • MLC corner is being developed on www.itfseafarers.org • A Seafarers’ Bill of Rights ( An ITF Guide for Seafarers to the ILO MLC,2006) • Fact sheets (printed and be available online) • Cruise ships policy ( developed and amended in line with the MLC) • Participation in ILO promotion seminars • ITF actively lobbying and working with other stakeholders like IACS and Paris MOU

9. ITF activities • ITF Inspectors initial familiarisation (WWIS Istanbul June 2009) • more detailed training course developed for ITF inspectors ( training to trainers – 4th quarter 2010) • Regional and sub regional seminars planned for all ITF inspectors – 2011-2012 • Training modules of different length for affiliates • Assisting affiliates through advice and training on request