Crew welfare must remain a top priority for the industry
As the shipping community gathered in London for the London International Shipping Week, seafarers’ charity Apostleship of the Sea stressed that crew welfare must remain a top priority for the industry.
Newly-appointed Port Chaplain for Thames and Tilbury Wojciech Holub believes the work of the organisation, which includes ship visits and practical support for seafarers, is more important than ever as shipping becomes more globalised and automated.
“Sadly, some crew still have not got internet access onboard their vessels and don’t have the time to get ashore because of the short port stay, so this is where we come in to provide practical help and advice.I bring along things such as telephone cards with me when I go onboard but often all that the crew are looking for is a friendly face and someone who has the time to listen to them. It can be hard work but I find it rewarding and it keeps me busy,” says Mr Holub, who comes from Gdansk, Poland.
Source: LISW
Learn more about seafarers’ charity Apostleship of the Sea at http://www.apostleshipofthesea.org.uk
