“When seafarer gets into trouble, he goes to trade union for help”

Specialists of the Southern Territorial Organization of the Seafarers’ Union of Russia (STO SUR) continue to advise crew members on all labor related issues. For the last month the number of seafarers applying for help to STO SUR has increased significantly. This is largely due to the difficult situation caused by the economic sanctions imposed. Need for financial assistance because of a long stay on shore without work, issues related to repatriation and pensions are among the most common reasons for contacting the Union. The SUR notes that during a crisis the need for a trade union steadily increases.

Thus, according to STO SUR, more than 40 people - seafarers and members of their families - apply to local trade union committees every month.  Besides, the Union members come to consult lawyers - mainly on every day matters. “Due to the nature of their work, seafarers  are detached  from everyday problems,” says Vadim Kulebyakin, STO SUR Chief legal expert. “Therefore, many of them come to us to consult on issues related to  inheritance of property, divorce proceedings, repayment of loans when they have returned from the voyage.”

We add that the trade union gym, excursion trips, information support, assistance in challenging circumstances and much more remain at the service of the STO SUR members.

“This service sector, if we can use that term to name a trade union is an absolute must in our industry,” - the SUR  member, Captain Vladimir Larin, who works at Sovcomflot (Novorossiysk) believes. “For  many seafarers find a work not with reliable companies with decent wages, but with small shipowners on board old vessels. Such employers not only do not pay money, but also do not comply with basic safety requirements. This is where the trade union comes to the rescue, and the need in trade union’s protection  becomes very clear to seafarers. Therefore, when I hear somebody talking something like “trade union is out of need, it does nothing,” I answer: “Guys, it's great that everything is fine with us. But when a seafarer gets into trouble, he goes to the union for help.” I myself have been working at Novoship all my life. This company is well-established, reliable, no conflict situations have been arose. But I know some seafarers  who were less fortunate, who found a job  with other employers on small vessels. Just for them  the  union was of great help.

Source: STO SUR