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ITF and largest flag state continue joint work spanning seafarer abandonment, new technology and union agreement coverage.
The International Transport Workers' Federation (ITF), ITF-affiliate, the Union de Ingenieros (UIM), and the General Directorate of Seafarers of the Panama Maritime Authority (PMA) have jointly reaffirmed their commitment to supporting seafarers.
More than a year after the ITF and PMA signed a Memorandum of Understanding, the ITF convened a meeting in the Republic of Panama.
ITF Inspectorate Coordinator Steve Trowsdale said: "It was a pleasure meeting Maryluz Castillo, General Director of the Directorate of Seafarers. Our discussions were very productive, reaffirming our shared commitment to supporting seafarers.
“There’s no doubt that the ITF and the PMA share the same vision of working together to protect and support seafarers. And we look forward to working together more closely to enhance the welfare and rights of those who work at sea."
The ITF-PMA agreement seeks to enhance cooperation between the two parties in order to benefit seafarers on board Panama-flagged vessels, based on the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) 2006, as amended.
The agreement’s key objectives include sharing best practice, providing support and sharing information on issues concerning seafarers – including abandonment, unpaid wages and the introduction of new technology, including alternative fuels and digitalisation.
Additionally, both parties will seek to work together to increase the number of Panama-registered vessels covered by ITF-approved agreements.
ITF Americas Regional Secretary, Edgar Díaz, ITF National Coordinator and UIM Member, Vladimir Small Ortiz, retired UIM member, Bernardo Campo, and Head of the PMA Maritime Labour Affairs Department, Mayte Burgos, joined the ITF’s Steve Trowsdale and PMA’s Maryluz Castillo at the meeting.