ITF Says Seafarers Keeping Global Trade Alive , Congratulates Crew Of Ever Given

The International Transport Workers Federation (ITF) has sent  congratulatory messages to the captain and crew of the Ever Given who have been released from the Suez Canal and have now resumed sailing after a well-fought victory in their fight for freedom.

ITF affiliates including the National Union of Seafarers of India – NUSI have been supporting crew all the way, saying seafarers will continue to keep global trade afloat.

“It was gratifying to have the vessel crew welfare looked into by NUSI and the ITF during the vessel stay at Great Bitter Lake.” said MV Ever Given Captain Hanse Kurisinkal.

To mark this happy occasion we post the following: a poem written by Abdulgani Serang, General Secretary cum Treasurer of the National Union of Seafarers of India (NUSI) – an ITF Seafarers’ Section affiliated union and great support to these seafarers and thier families through these trying times:

”Ever Given” stuck in the Suez Canal – finally sails boosting seafarers morale.The worldwide Covid pandemic brought a total lockdown on the road.Total Lockdown in the airlines, railways and every other mode.

“But worldwide seafarers were ruling the seas keeping seafaring traditions alive.So were the committed seafarers later called the “Ever Given” 25

“The “Ever Given” was stuck in the Suez Canal due to natures act. The “Ever Given” 25 were never at fault and that is a fact.

“But politics took over and then started the blame game.How to pass the fault to the seafarers was the hidden aim cargo delays, canal importance, alternatives were discussed worldwide.But no mention of the passion, commitment, hard work from the seafarers side.

“In their fight for justice, the “Ever Given” 25 were never alone.Had national, international support and were never on their own.

“Finally the “Ever Given” resumes sailing after a well fought victory .The incident which shook the world will be remembered in history.We wish the very best to “Ever Given” 25 who are committed seafarers.They are the ones keeping the world alive as our maritime torch bearers.’