ITF TO CAMPAIGN AGAINST “FLAG-OF-CONVENIENCE” REGISTRIES

ITF TO CAMPAIGN AGAINST “FLAG-OF-CONVENIENCE” REGISTRIES

ITF TO CAMPAIGN AGAINST “FLAG-OF-CONVENIENCE” REGISTRIES

   The International Transport Workers’ Federation will stage a rally in Washington Sept. 19 to protest abuses to crews of vessels which are under “flag-of-convenience” registries.
   “FOC (flag-of-convenience) registries typically are used to provide vessel owners cut-rate registrations fees, low or no corporate taxes, and evasion of safety and environmental statutes,” the ITF said. “Many FOC vessels are likened to floating sweatshops.”
   The ITF’s objectives are:
   * Consign FOC ships to their flags of ownership, which is sought through the auspices of the International Labor Organization, International Maritime Organization and the government and flag state administrations.
   * Effect the maximum amount of coverage of FOC ships with ITF-approved collective bargaining agreements.
   London-based ITF represents more than 5 million workers in workers in 500 trade unions worldwide. It has fought the flag-of-convenience system since 1948.
   In addition to ITF officials, other labor unions will participate in the rally, such as the American Maritime Officers, International Longshore & Warehouse Union, International Longshoremen’s Association, International Organization of Masters, Mates & Pilots; Marine Engineers’ Beneficial Association, National Maritime Union and Seafarers’ International Union.