The collective bargaining agreement is a guarantee of the shipowner's reliability

A Russian seafarer was repatriated to his homeland from England notwithstanding the difficulties relating the signing off in foreign ports due to the ban or restrictions on issuing visas to Russian citizens. The spouse of a MV "Baltic Spirit" crew member contacted the Seafarers' Union of Russia asking for assistance in his signing off and returning home: the seafarer filled unwell during the voyage, when the vessel was in Denmark. Despite the recommendation to go ashore, the Danish authorities refused to issue the Russian seafarer a transit visa. Since the vessel was leaving for South America, the SUR contacted the shipowner and the Union that signed the collective bargaining agreement for MV "Baltic Spirit" for consultations. As a result, the company instructed the vessel to call an English port to repatriate the seafarer. 

The Seafarers' Union of Russia outlines: experience has proven that any emerging issues are addressed promptly and effectively when there is a collective bargaining agreement on board a vessel. Thereby companies display their social responsibility. It should be added, that it was really challenging to obtain permission for a signing off from the vessel in England, nevertheless, the authorities issued a visa to the Russian seafarer who needed help. The SUR advises seafarers to make sure, before setting out on a voyage, that the chosen shipping company is in good standing and has no issues with payment of wages and compensation, and with arranging repatriation. The SUR can also provide information on the availability on board a specific vessel of a collective bargaining agreement, which is a guarantee of the shipowner's reliability. 

Photo: author - Dlyaver Alchik for the purpose of SUR Contest "I am/We are key workers"