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UK concession set to free migrant fishers from exploitation
05/03/2010
 |  |  view larger image | | | The crew of the Enxembre: forced to work an average of 20 hours per day | |
A new concession introduced in the UK will help end the exploitation of migrant workers from outside the European Economic Area (EEA) who are employed on fishing vessels in UK waters.
Introduced on 1 March by the UK Border Agency, the concession will mean that fishers from outside the EEA will be able to apply to work on board fishing vessels operating within a 12-mile limit. Captains will be held accountable and seafarers will have to receive the UK minimum wage and live on shore with accommodation monitored by the agency. In the event of any abuses, harsh penalties will be imposed against the captain.
The concession followed an investigation, prompted by an ITF report into conditions in the Scottish and Irish fishing industry. The report, Migrant workers in the Scottish and Irish fishing industry, highlighted the bullying, harassment and abuse suffered by migrant fishers and put forward a “roadmap” for action by the UK and Irish governments. This included a review of the application and other procedures for work permits for non-EEA migrant fishing crew; steps to protect them from abuse and exploitation and the introduction of minimum standards.
Norrie McVicar, ITF coordinator UK and Ireland, commented: “The Border Agency should be congratulated for its efforts to recognise the complaints made on behalf of abused overseas fishers in Scotland and Northern Ireland. Moreover, in time, its actions will provide more local people with the opportunity to find work in this industry.
“The penalty for breaching regulations will be severe. Fishers will no longer have to sleep and live on vessels in port that are not fit for purpose.
“We would like to express our appreciation to Frank Doran member of parliament for Aberdeen South who worked with the ITF to deliver the new regulations.
“The ITF will continue to monitor the industry going forward.”
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