SEAFARERS PLIGHT: Mission Seeks Govt Intervention For Improved Welfare Packages
The Mission to Seafarers (MTS), on Thursday called for increased welfare packages for Seafarers, even as it seek government interventions to better their lots.
Chairman of the mission, High Chief Adebayo Sarumi made the plea in a statement to commemorate the Seafarers Day celebration which is marked every June 25.
Sarumi, a former Managing Director of Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) hoped that this intervention by governments would trickle down and positively impact the men and women who are the fulcrum for global development.
He said, “On behalf of the board and entire management team of Mission to Seafarers, Lagos, I join multitude across the globe in celebrating this year’s Seafarers day.
“We indeed have much to celebrate. Ordinarily, any occasion to mark the sacrifice of our gallant men and women that ordinarily put their lives on the line for the greater good, is a noble gesture.
“A year ago however, the world was thrown into confusion with the advent of a sudden and rapidly consuming pandemic. Numerous lives were affected, including numerous seafarers and their families.
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“Those of us fortunate enough to tell its tale must appreciate an occasion to relay experiences and reminiscence on account for all the departed, even as we embrace the gift of life.
“As the world emerges from the ember of the covid-19 pandemic, we will, however, be remiss to not have learnt from its wake, as it merely notched up the increasing vulnerability of seafarers.
“Exposure to the elements and operational travails were in this period compounded with often unfavorable political policy.
“Seafarers already grappling with these pressures were subjected to unduly delayed shore leave, isolations and in some cases, complete abandonment,” he said
Sarumi said that it was not all gloom as they had witnessed some positive responses from shipowners, government and regulatory establishments.
The theme for the 2021 Seafarers Day is “Seafarers: At the Core of Shipping Future”.
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