The Isle of Man has entered into a new tripartite declaration designed to improve the living and working conditions of all seafarers on Isle of Man-registered ships.
The declaration is one of principle and formalises the relationship that will ensure that the MLC is recognised.
This means it will apply to all vessels that the MLC applies to which will include Superyachts
This is being carried out in a tripartite forum between the Isle of Man Government, the Isle of Man Shipping Association and the seafarers’ representative unions, which has been in place for many years.
The forum has been a key element in the continued success of the Isle of Man’s Ship Registry as it demonstrates the commitment to the seafarers serving on its ships to ensure they are provided with the right living and working conditions, employment conditions and pay.
The “Declaration of Principles”, originally agreed and signed in 2003, has been revised to bring it up to date with international developments.
Additionally, the Declaration recognises the importance of the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) and demonstrates how the Isle of Man is working towards its adoption. The MLC, which is expected to enter into force in 2012, will be the new standard enforced globally to cover the rights of seafarers.
Dick Welsh, Director of the Isle of Man Ship Registry said: “The tripartite relationship, which has been developed over many years in the Isle of Man, is invaluable in our work on the new convention. It is a forum by which we can consult on draft policies and regulations, which gives the ship owners and the unions a real chance to shape the future for seafarers.”