The Government has passed provisions allowing things like crew changes (which are guaranteed under the Maritime Labour Convention) to happen, but that’s not the full story. The London-based International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) is criticising New Zealand for running a seemingly generous policy for these seafarers on paper, but then allowing local port companies and district health boards (DHBs) to nullify these policies by passing their own rules. Left unaddressed the issue could lead to a major maritime accident in our waters, drive up costs and discourage some ships from visiting.
JOSEPH JOHNSON/STUFF
The Seafarers Mission chair says crews whose contracts have been extended by months without shore leave feel imprisoned.