SHIPPING REP DIES IN DIVING ACCIDENT

Simon Davis was bosun on the Pride of Bilbao, he died on April 14, 2009 in a diving accident at the age of 45. He was an able seaman (SGIA) who served on various vessels at sea. Since 1991 he had worked on P&O Ferries: the Pride of Cherbourg; Pride of Winchester; European Trader; European Clearway and Pride of Portsmouth before transferring to the Pride of Bilbao. Simon provided the highest level of representation for RMT members in sometimes controversial and often difficult circumstances, defending their jobs and conditions with a passion. He represented the members of his branch at the BGM. He was an asset to the union’s network of representatives and will not only be missed by his family and shipboard mates but also by the union at large. Below, his colleagues pay tribute to him. THE CREW OF THE PRIDE OF BILBAO With regret Simon Davis passed away so unexpectedly. He always made time to listen to our problems and dilemmas, and offer advice and guidance along the way. He was an excellent union representative, often taking up large chunks of his personal life to try and benefit others. His character and outlook on life will be sadly missed by all that knew him. It is a sad loss of a friend, colleague and all who met him. CAPTAIN PHILIP HILL I head hunted Simon from the French Fleet a number of years ago. I needed somebody with a strong character, that was also firm but fair with the crew. Having worked with Simon on the French Fleet I knew Simon fitted the bill and he was the man I wanted. He became an important and essential asset to this vessel. Simon never let me down; if at times we disagreed he would explain his reasons in a clear and concise way. At no time did I ever hear Simon raise his voice. As a union representative he always looked after the interest of the crew but also understood that the company had a commercial side that had to be supported. Simon will be sadly missed by all those who came into contact with him. S.D.GROSS, CHIEF OFFICER I first met Simon on the Pride of Bilbao when he was promoted from the French Fleet. Simon was a well respected Bosun by both the officers and crew. His seamanship, leadership and calmness under pressure stood him out from the crowd. As an active union member he put himself out, representing his people and attending Port & Company meetings. He was articulate and intelligent which made him the perfect representative, while wanting the best for his crew he also understood the employers’ position: he was also a very fair person. I can remember one particular conversation where he was suggesting that higher paid ratings took a lower pay rise in order to increase the basic pay of lower paid crew who were probably not even union members. The impact to the employer was minimal, I have no idea if anything came of it, sadly not I think, never the less an admirable suggestion and typical of his ‘fair treatment’ attitude. Simon was a character who was well liked and respected; he will be missed by all aboard the Pride of Bilbao. Thanks to Darren Procter for collating the material from the workers on the Pride of Bilbao RMT helpline 0800 3763706 :: may 2009 :: RMTnews 13 OBITUARY SIMON DAVIS It is with great sadness that we announce the death of Simon Davis, board rep on the Pride of Bilbao, writes Steve Todd, RMT national secretary. SHIPPING REP DIES IN DIVING ACCIDENT