This is the website for the ICSW and what they are doing to help all seafarers worldwide.
There Link
http://www.seafarerswelfare.org/home/what-are-we.html
Charity Objects & Significant Activities Undertaken in Relation to
Objects
The objects of the ICSW as laid down in the Memorandum of Association are ‘to
promote the relief of need, hardship or distress amongst seafarers of all nationalities,
races, colours and creeds’. In pursuit of these objects the ICSW will:
a. Promote and foster on an international basis the provision of welfare services at
sea and ashore for seafarers irrespective of nationality, race, colours, creed or
gender;
b. Identify the need for facilities and services such as clubs, advisory centres,
welfare officers, sporting events and sport facilities, entertainment and cultural
provisions for seafarers visiting ports to be provided in accordance with ILO
instruments and with particular reference to countries where welfare facilities do
not currently exist;
c. Make recommendations concerning the welfare needs identified including advice
as to the best use of available resources;
d. Provide advice and assistance to international, national, municipal and port
authorities and agencies, ship owners, seafarers, welfare organisations and
other interested bodies, including advice on the practical implementation of the
ILO instruments concerning seafarers' welfare;
e. Encourage and promote enhanced awareness of the welfare needs of seafarers
when away from home, especially among Port State governments;
f. Establish and maintain close working relationships with the ILO and, in
particular, to assist the ILO regarding the worldwide realisation of the objectives
of the ILO instruments concerning seafarers' welfare.
How do we do it?
Projects – activities undertaken on behalf of ICSW members, which are of direct
benefit to seafarers and that no other agency has the skills, resources or mandate to
do. Projects are executed in a timely, efficient and cost effective manner with
quantifiable deliverables, overseen by a steering group composed of ICSW members
reporting to the Board of Trustees. Work is undertaken by the ICSW Secretariat, an
individual ICSW member, a group of ICSW members or an external consultant
contracted to the ICSW. Project activity includes:
a. International Sport for Seafarers (ISS) – open to all seafarers;
b. Seafarers’ Health Information Programme (SHIP) – products distributed
free through nodal ports;
c. Twinning Centres Programme – open to all seafarers’ centres;
d. Training of welfare workers to enhance ship visiting – open to all ship visitors;
e. Provision of information relating to the seafarers’ welfare provisions of the
Maritime Labour Convention 2006 – available to all seafarers and welfare
workers.
Seminars – taking place every 18 months to two years these events are designed to
raise awareness of seafarers’ welfare issues in a particular maritime region or subregion.
Seminars are requirement driven, with target regions and issues being
proposed by ICSW members and welfare personnel working in a region. Issues are
refined by a questionnaire distributed throughout target regions. The ICSW facilitates
discussion between regional/national representatives of all maritime and government
agencies, with input from international bodies with relevant expertise in the issues
being discussed. Seminars are tailored to result in a structured programme of work
specifically designed to address and resolve issues raised during the seminar. Work
is undertaken by agencies attending the seminar working in close cooperation with
each other and the ICSW. These Regional Seafarers’ Welfare Development
Programmes are funded by the ITF Seafarers’ Trust and monitored/supported by the
ICSW. Seminar activity during the period included preparations for and execution of
the South East Asia Regional Seafarers’ Welfare seminar (September 2007,
Singapore).
Regional Seafarers’ Welfare Development Programmes – designed to address
specific issues raised at ICSW seminars in order to achieve a minimum benchmark
level of seafarers’ welfare throughout a particular region, linking with other regions to
achieve a global minimum standard, on which particular issue related initiatives can
be built through project activity. Regional programmes include:
a. South Asia;
b. South East Asia (commenced June 2008 after preparation work October 2007
to May 2008).
New Projects
a. Seafarers' Welfare in the 21st century – A Model Template
b. Recreation & Fitness at Sea
c. Seafarers’ Welfare Portal
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Friday, October 30, 2009
From One concerned person trying to help.
Shore Leave problems in Slovenia
On July 1, 2004 the Slovenian General Police Directorate instructed the Maritime Police the following:
- Holders of Seamen's Books issued in a country not ratifying ILO Convention 108 (Seafarers National Identity Documents), who are also holders of a Passport of the country whose citizens need an entrance visa are allowed to go ashore only if they have applied and paid for a visa.
Unfortunately I was not aware of above until a Slovenian journalist informed me at the end of July. I acted immediately and sent an official letter to the General Police Directorate informing them that Slovenia had ratified the IMO Convention on the Facilitation of International Maritime Traffic 1965 (FAL), which states that crew members shall not be required to hold a visa for the purpose of shore leave and also stipulates that foreign crew members shall be allowed ashore by the public authorities whilst their ship is in port. When I discussed the above matter over the telephone with the representative of the General Police Directorate I was very much surprised when I learnt that Police did not know anything about IMO Conventions, furthermore I received an official letter from Mr. Darko Anzelj, General Director of the Slovenian General Police Directorate, in which he stated that there is no international legal basis obliging the Slovenian Police to change their policy. Of course I did not agree with him and I sent an official letter to the Ombudsman and Slovenian President Mr. Janez Drnovsek. There was no change and I sent more than thirty emails and fax messages to the competent authorities. I must stress that there was excellent Media coverage (Newspapers, TV, Radio) - I was really fully supported by the Slovenian Media and also by the Slovenian public. The Media even published a statement of a retired Slovenian seafarer Mr. Vinko Grgic who said that he was ashamed of this decision and that he had sailed with seafarers of more than twenty nationalities during his career and he knew very well the absurdity of discrimination based on nationality and national documents. Let me point out that there was also very strong letter of protest written by one Captain whose crew were refused permission to go ashore without a visa. In his letter of protest he wrote -
Taking in consideration that at Port of Koper shore leave to India and Serbia&Montenegro crewmembers were suspended I have to place strong protest. For our information vessel called before Koper Port of Monfalcone, Porto Marghera, Rijeka and Pozzalo and in those ports we had shore leave without any restrictions. As far as I now not a single country of the European Union is applying restrictions on shore leave to vessel's crewmembers in the way that Slovenia is doing now. With restrictions of shore leave our freedom have been violated, as well as the democracy and institution of vessel's Master. This is 21 st century, era of modern civilization, therefore you have to take this issue very seriously and to reconsider your decision of shore leave restrictions to any crewmember regardless of nationality, religion or colour. As a young European country and recently members of European Union you should be guided by other European countries, to be flexible, smart and wise in order to be prosperous, democratic and long lasting. Handing over this letter I hope that at least some one will read it and will think whether restrictions of shore leave to any seaman is an act of good will, meanwhile I remain."
I must stress also that the right to shore leave for seafarers was fully supported also by management of the Port of Koper and also by Association of Maritime Agencies.
On 20 August there was finally a positive response. The Slovenian Transport Minister Mr. Marko Pavliha initiated a meeting between the Ministries of Transport, Internal Affairs and External Affairs. Transport Minister Mr. Pavliha confirmed that I was right and made it very clear that Slovenia must respect the IMO Convention on the Facilitation of International Maritime Traffic. During the meeting, it was agreed that all seafarers coming to the Slovenian Port of Koper would be allowed to go ashore, even if they do not possess an entry visa. I was informed of the good news by the Ministry of Transport upon my return to Slovenia from London, where I was working temporarily at the ITF Secretariat.
ENDS
The General Police Directorate changed their instructions to the Maritime Police but not as I expected. According to the new instructions, the Maritime police now allows seafarers to go ashore with a valid passport and without visa. But in cases where seafarers are without current, valid passport, they are allowed to go ashore only if they are holders of a Seaman's Book issued in a country ratifying ILO Convention 108. I believe all seafarers should be allowed ashore if they hold a Seamen's Book, even if their issuing countries did not ratify ILO 108. There are many countries, which did not ratify this convention - for example (as far as I know): U.S.A, Germany, Japan etc. As I understand, only 62 countries ratified this convention.
My fight with the Slovenian General Police Directorate is continuing and I am arguing that if you are a signatory to the IMO Convention on the Facilitation of International Maritime Traffic 1965 (FAL) as long as ID complies with provision 3.10.1 (standard of requirements for an ID) it is valid and ILO 108 is irrelevant and this does not even require it to be issued by the seafarers National authority.
I worked at sea as an Engineering Officer for more than ten years and I know how important is for seafarers to go ashore. Shore leave is essential for the physical and mental health of seafarers!
Contact Information
Branko Krznaric
ITF Inspector
ITF - The Slovenian FOC Office
Seamen's Union of Slovenia
Obala 55, 6320 Portoroz, Slovenia
Tel.: + 386 5 6766427
Fax: + 386 5 6530239
Mobile phone: + 386 41 646167
Email: krznaric_branko@itf.org.uk
ITF House, 49-60 Borough Road, London SE1 1DR | +44 20 7403 2733 | mail@itf.org.uk
On July 1, 2004 the Slovenian General Police Directorate instructed the Maritime Police the following:
- Holders of Seamen's Books issued in a country not ratifying ILO Convention 108 (Seafarers National Identity Documents), who are also holders of a Passport of the country whose citizens need an entrance visa are allowed to go ashore only if they have applied and paid for a visa.
Unfortunately I was not aware of above until a Slovenian journalist informed me at the end of July. I acted immediately and sent an official letter to the General Police Directorate informing them that Slovenia had ratified the IMO Convention on the Facilitation of International Maritime Traffic 1965 (FAL), which states that crew members shall not be required to hold a visa for the purpose of shore leave and also stipulates that foreign crew members shall be allowed ashore by the public authorities whilst their ship is in port. When I discussed the above matter over the telephone with the representative of the General Police Directorate I was very much surprised when I learnt that Police did not know anything about IMO Conventions, furthermore I received an official letter from Mr. Darko Anzelj, General Director of the Slovenian General Police Directorate, in which he stated that there is no international legal basis obliging the Slovenian Police to change their policy. Of course I did not agree with him and I sent an official letter to the Ombudsman and Slovenian President Mr. Janez Drnovsek. There was no change and I sent more than thirty emails and fax messages to the competent authorities. I must stress that there was excellent Media coverage (Newspapers, TV, Radio) - I was really fully supported by the Slovenian Media and also by the Slovenian public. The Media even published a statement of a retired Slovenian seafarer Mr. Vinko Grgic who said that he was ashamed of this decision and that he had sailed with seafarers of more than twenty nationalities during his career and he knew very well the absurdity of discrimination based on nationality and national documents. Let me point out that there was also very strong letter of protest written by one Captain whose crew were refused permission to go ashore without a visa. In his letter of protest he wrote -
Taking in consideration that at Port of Koper shore leave to India and Serbia&Montenegro crewmembers were suspended I have to place strong protest. For our information vessel called before Koper Port of Monfalcone, Porto Marghera, Rijeka and Pozzalo and in those ports we had shore leave without any restrictions. As far as I now not a single country of the European Union is applying restrictions on shore leave to vessel's crewmembers in the way that Slovenia is doing now. With restrictions of shore leave our freedom have been violated, as well as the democracy and institution of vessel's Master. This is 21 st century, era of modern civilization, therefore you have to take this issue very seriously and to reconsider your decision of shore leave restrictions to any crewmember regardless of nationality, religion or colour. As a young European country and recently members of European Union you should be guided by other European countries, to be flexible, smart and wise in order to be prosperous, democratic and long lasting. Handing over this letter I hope that at least some one will read it and will think whether restrictions of shore leave to any seaman is an act of good will, meanwhile I remain."
I must stress also that the right to shore leave for seafarers was fully supported also by management of the Port of Koper and also by Association of Maritime Agencies.
On 20 August there was finally a positive response. The Slovenian Transport Minister Mr. Marko Pavliha initiated a meeting between the Ministries of Transport, Internal Affairs and External Affairs. Transport Minister Mr. Pavliha confirmed that I was right and made it very clear that Slovenia must respect the IMO Convention on the Facilitation of International Maritime Traffic. During the meeting, it was agreed that all seafarers coming to the Slovenian Port of Koper would be allowed to go ashore, even if they do not possess an entry visa. I was informed of the good news by the Ministry of Transport upon my return to Slovenia from London, where I was working temporarily at the ITF Secretariat.
ENDS
The General Police Directorate changed their instructions to the Maritime Police but not as I expected. According to the new instructions, the Maritime police now allows seafarers to go ashore with a valid passport and without visa. But in cases where seafarers are without current, valid passport, they are allowed to go ashore only if they are holders of a Seaman's Book issued in a country ratifying ILO Convention 108. I believe all seafarers should be allowed ashore if they hold a Seamen's Book, even if their issuing countries did not ratify ILO 108. There are many countries, which did not ratify this convention - for example (as far as I know): U.S.A, Germany, Japan etc. As I understand, only 62 countries ratified this convention.
My fight with the Slovenian General Police Directorate is continuing and I am arguing that if you are a signatory to the IMO Convention on the Facilitation of International Maritime Traffic 1965 (FAL) as long as ID complies with provision 3.10.1 (standard of requirements for an ID) it is valid and ILO 108 is irrelevant and this does not even require it to be issued by the seafarers National authority.
I worked at sea as an Engineering Officer for more than ten years and I know how important is for seafarers to go ashore. Shore leave is essential for the physical and mental health of seafarers!
Contact Information
Branko Krznaric
ITF Inspector
ITF - The Slovenian FOC Office
Seamen's Union of Slovenia
Obala 55, 6320 Portoroz, Slovenia
Tel.: + 386 5 6766427
Fax: + 386 5 6530239
Mobile phone: + 386 41 646167
Email: krznaric_branko@itf.org.uk
ITF House, 49-60 Borough Road, London SE1 1DR | +44 20 7403 2733 | mail@itf.org.uk
Sunday, October 11, 2009
The issues of Time in Port
Good day to All,
With Time in port being so short and accessibility of the crew to go ashore being so tight, what are the options for crews these days in experiencing the countries that they visit?
The biggest reason I have found for the crew to go ashore in recent years is to have a change of Scene and to phone their loved ones from somewhere that is not on the ship. If any shopping can be done or a meal be had then that is always welcome.
My Hat comes off to the many Seaman's Missions around the world who normally provide the transport and the facilities for the visiting seamen. http://www.missiontoseafarers.org/
If there are wives on board it can be easier for some reason to go ashore and to take in some sightseeing and shopping. Why is that?
I also recently came across the following website on shore leave for seaman which is interesting, informative and trying to make a difference. Access to shore can be restrictive for all the right reasons but with a profound effect on our rights as people of the world. Surely with more thought we can meet the needs of security, safety and welfare.
http://www.seamenschurch.org/
I know there are many people out there who appreciate the difficulties today's seafarers face. All comments and opinions of a positive nature are welcome on these pages and maybe one day together we can make a difference.
Safe Voyages to All
Sean
With Time in port being so short and accessibility of the crew to go ashore being so tight, what are the options for crews these days in experiencing the countries that they visit?
The biggest reason I have found for the crew to go ashore in recent years is to have a change of Scene and to phone their loved ones from somewhere that is not on the ship. If any shopping can be done or a meal be had then that is always welcome.
My Hat comes off to the many Seaman's Missions around the world who normally provide the transport and the facilities for the visiting seamen. http://www.missiontoseafarers.org/
If there are wives on board it can be easier for some reason to go ashore and to take in some sightseeing and shopping. Why is that?
I also recently came across the following website on shore leave for seaman which is interesting, informative and trying to make a difference. Access to shore can be restrictive for all the right reasons but with a profound effect on our rights as people of the world. Surely with more thought we can meet the needs of security, safety and welfare.
http://www.seamenschurch.org/
I know there are many people out there who appreciate the difficulties today's seafarers face. All comments and opinions of a positive nature are welcome on these pages and maybe one day together we can make a difference.
Safe Voyages to All
Sean
Friday, October 9, 2009
Shiptalk newsletter
Today is a relatively quiet day at home, catching up on my emails etc. One good place for discussion topics and information is
newsletter@shiptalk.com
I recommend this forum to all.
Safe Voyages to All.
newsletter@shiptalk.com
I recommend this forum to all.
Safe Voyages to All.
Thursday, October 8, 2009
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Grenoble Manned model lake
Hello everyone
We were at the Grenoble manned model lake in France today. A very interesting place that teaches advanced ship handling to Pilots and Masters. It is very effective training allowing shp handlers to try new manoeuvres without putting ships and the public in danger. Their link is below.
Safe Voyages to All!
Monday, October 5, 2009
My first Blog entry
Good day to everyone around the world!
I have decided to start a Blog about improving the lives of the many brave seafarers around the world. Most seafarers now do not have the opportunities to see the world as we did in times gone by. There are many reasons why this has happened but I would prefer to concentrate not on the past and what we cannot change but on the future and what we can.
I have spoken with many people in the industry from those just starting at sea to those who are influences in the higher hallowed halls of the industry and the question that to me is the fundamental question that needs answering, and that will safeguard our industry for the future, is "Why would anyone want to go to sea now?"
The replies vary greater though with some common themes. I went to sea for the adventure the sea invoked in me, the possibilities to explore the world and see the magnificent and magestic. Oh yes and I was paid to do so too! It has been a great life with many spectacular things to share in my coming blogs. Well all seafarers like to talk about their experiences.
But enough about me for the moment. If anyone out there wants to add any suggestions that would help the lives of seafarers I invite you to add your piece in a positive productive manner please.
Safe Voyages though Life.
Sean
I have decided to start a Blog about improving the lives of the many brave seafarers around the world. Most seafarers now do not have the opportunities to see the world as we did in times gone by. There are many reasons why this has happened but I would prefer to concentrate not on the past and what we cannot change but on the future and what we can.
I have spoken with many people in the industry from those just starting at sea to those who are influences in the higher hallowed halls of the industry and the question that to me is the fundamental question that needs answering, and that will safeguard our industry for the future, is "Why would anyone want to go to sea now?"
The replies vary greater though with some common themes. I went to sea for the adventure the sea invoked in me, the possibilities to explore the world and see the magnificent and magestic. Oh yes and I was paid to do so too! It has been a great life with many spectacular things to share in my coming blogs. Well all seafarers like to talk about their experiences.
But enough about me for the moment. If anyone out there wants to add any suggestions that would help the lives of seafarers I invite you to add your piece in a positive productive manner please.
Safe Voyages though Life.
Sean
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