Staff Reporter

Margao

With a large number of Goans employed as seafarers on merchant ships and cruise liners, the National Maritime Day, which is celebrated on April 5, is an opportunity for them to raise their issues. The Goan Seamen Association of India (GSAI) and the Goa Maritime Officers Association (GMOA) have been the voice of the seafarers in the state.

In a recent interaction with officials of the Directorate General of Shipping, GSAI president Frank Viegas said, “The association made suggestions pertaining to internet facility on board the ship, flight tickets, overtime, medical plans, besides seeking appointment of seafarer relation officers by every RPSL company, exemption of seafarers from income tax and so on.”

The GMOA has called for ensuring strict adherence to standards set as per the International Labour Organisation and the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) by ship owners and operators. It also called for making provisions of mental health support services such as counselling.

Chief engineer and founder of GMOA Bhasker Rivanker said, “Collaboration and concerted efforts from various stakeholders are required to address issues of the seafarers.” Safety hazards are also an aspect, but with continuous training and drills focusing on safety procedures, management systems, maintenance of equipment and fostering a safety first culture on board can help mitigate risks, said the GMOA.