In light of these challenging times, Cyprus ensures that safety remains a priority for the shipping industry and expressed its commitment to protect and support seafarers and recognized seafarers as key workers.
Key shipping stakeholders have been in a rally in order to recognize seafarers as key workers, with lately the ILO issuing a paper according to which governments have failed abjectly to protect the minimum standards for the protection of seafarers’ rights, as set out in international law under the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) 2006.
Mr Vassilios Demetriades, Cyprus Shipping Deputy Minister issued a statement expressing Cyprus’ support towards seafarers and visited Limassol Port on 23rd December 2020 to thank seafarers in person.
It is highlighted that the ship visits were conducted under a fully strict COVID-19 protocol, and seafarers were given traditional Cypriot gifts as a token of appreciation for the dedication shown by seafarers throughout a challenging 2020.
Mr Demetriades commented that
Every seafarer has been impacted, whether at home or at sea. We have a duty to support our key workers and thank them for all their passion, dedication and hard work, not only during the festive season but the whole year through.
He added that Cyprus has always had as a priority a safe and efficient shipping industry, as also was one of the first countries in 2020 to facilitate a new, safe process for crew changes during COVID-19.
