World Maritime Day

THE International Transport Workers Federation (ITF) will use the day to focus on new measures regarding maritime security and the difficulties this is causing the shipping industry and seafarers. The aim of the RMT and other ITF affiliates is to promote ratification of ILO Convention No. 185 (Seafarers’ Identity Documents), and to facilitate shore leave for seafarers and transit to and from ships. The ITF is keen to highlight the problems that seafarers have experienced in the US, where seafarers are meant to appear in person at US Consulates to obtain visas. Already seafarers are faced with the added burden of complying with the International Ship and Port Facility Code (ISPS), and restrictions that adversely affect seafarers’ wellbeing are clearly counterproductive. ILO Convention 185 has adopted new standards for seafarers’ identity documents which cover key security concerns but also recognise the need for seafarers’ leave. Most importantly the Convention states that those seafarers holding the new ID should not have to apply for a visa in advance in their home country. RMT intends to participate with other ITF affiliates and a letter is to be delivered to the US embassy by the general secretary Bob Crow and president Tony Donaghey. On the right is a model letter to your local MP which registers RMT concerns. Electronic versions of this letter, and a further letter that can be sent to the US embassy, are available on the RMT members can participate in World Maritime Day on September 30 by raising concerns over new measures regarding maritime security and shore leave For immediate cover, further information or your no-obligation quotation call FREE now on the number below. Lines are open 8.30am to 8pm Mon-Fri, 9am to 1pm Sat Please quote reference RMT03 *Calls may be recorded or monitored for training purposes or to improve our quality of service. 0845 842 8421* www.uia.co.uk Great value insurance without compromise Home insurance G Buildings, contents or combined cover G Preferential low cost rates Preferential rates only available to you and your family because of your RMT membership UIA (Insurance Services) Ltd is registered under the Companies Act No 2998952 and is a subsidiary of UIA (Insurance) Ltd. UIA (Insurance) Ltd is a member of the Association of British Insurers, the Financial Ombudsman Service and the General Insurance Standards Council and is registered under the Industrial and Provident Societies Act - No. 2898R. UIA (Insurance) Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority. Travel insurance G Single trip or annual cover G Special rates for families - children under 4 years covered free Motor insurance G Best possible cover at preferential rates G Range of cover options plus 24 hour roadside assistance 8 Remember World Maritime Day on September 30