Richard Sealy
Government is moving to strengthen the laws that deal with conditions of work for people employed at sea.
Minister of Tourism Richard Sealy made that announcement this evening at an event to celebrate Seafarer’s Day held at the Bay Street Esplanade.
While noting the ‘huge sacrifices’ and ‘yeoman service’ given by seafarers, the minister said the administration is actively reviewing current legislation.
He said this will complement the Maritime Labour Convention, which went into effect in Barbados on June 20.
“The Maritime Labour Convention addresses the conditions of employment and the minimum requirements for seafarers to work on ships,” Sealy explained.
“I cannot overemphasize the importance of this convention – oftentimes called the Seafarer’s Bill of Rights – to the
Gershon Shepherd being presented with his award by Minister of Tourism Richard Sealy.
promotion and securing of safe and secure working conditions. Barbados already has in place national laws with respect to, inter alia, crew agreements, seafarers’ hours of work and rest and repatriation. However, my ministry is actively reviewing the legislation so as to strengthen the national requirements.”
During the short ceremony, Sealy announced that Gershon Shepherd has won the minister’s prize for the most outstanding student in maritime studies at the Samuel Jackman Prescod Polytechnic.