Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 3 Oct 2001

Vol. 541 No. 2

Written Answers. - International Seafarers.

Nora Owen

Question:

198 Mrs. Owen asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources if he will make a statement on the problems being faced by international seafarers due to the actions of some of the flag of convenience fleet which do not treat their staff in a fair and reasonable way; if he will raise this issue with his counterparts in the European Union; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21113/01]

Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources (Mr. Fahey):

All merchant vessels of any significant size must be registered. There are over 140 ship registers in operation worldwide. Ship registers impose obligations on ship owners regarding maintenance, crewing standards and certification of those matters by the flag state or inspection bodies duly authorised by the flag state. I am advised that the practice of using flags of convenience, involving what is perceived as lenient regulatory requirements, is still permissible under international law.

Foreign registered vessels using Irish ports are inspected regularly by the Marine Survey Office of my Department in the exercise of Ireland's port state control obligations. These inspections are aimed at ensuring that such vessels are maintained and operated in compliance with international safety standards laid down by the International Maritime Organisation, IMO, and, in relation to seafarers' social conditions, by the International Labour Organisation's, ILO, maritime conventions, together with relevant EU initiatives in the maritime area. Deficiencies identified are brought to the attention of the owner and flag state administration and may have to be rectified before the ship continues its journey. Ireland participates in IMO and ILO discussions on seafarers' welfare, supporting proposals aimed at improving their terms and conditions of employment. EU initiatives in relation to seafarers' hours of work will be introduced shortly. My officials are actively supporting initiatives in the Community to develop an EU maritime social policy and in that context the Deputy's concerns will be addressed.