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ITF inspector Norrie McVicar today confirmed that he has been told by crew that  the Spain-based owners of the Enxembre – whose name was changed last week from the Atalaya  – could be close to ordering the ship to leave port with virtually no seafarers onboard, rather than pay the wages owed to seven of the crew. The fishing vessel is currently at Ullapool Port, Scotland, having been detained a month ago by Port State Control.

The ITF has been assisting the crew since they phoned its Actions Unit in London a week ago saying that they were worried that an imminent change of flag from Britain to St Kitts might lead to them being sacked. When Norrie McVicar visited them seven crew members - six Indonesian and one Chilean - laid out a list of complaints which he is currently investigating. These include that the Master has been ordered to take the ship to sea with them on board against their will, leaving it manned by just three people. The crew reported this to the local police. The Indonesians also allege that in the last 10 months they have been paid only 200 euros a month of the 800 euros they signed up for. They state that they also had to pay a manning agent US$500 each for jobs on the Atalaya. The Chilean officer, who has been assisted in the past by the ITF on another vessel, says that he has not been paid in the last four months.

Norrie McVicar explained: “I’ve talked with the operators and intend to get this sorted out – amicably if possible. From where we are now it looks like getting the crew paid and repatriated is the aim. However, not I, nor the police here, nor port state control will tolerate any attempt to cut and run. The vessel stays here till we assess what the problem is and get it solved. We are ready to assist the crew in arresting the vessel if that proves necessary.”

The ITF believes that the owners of the 1973 built, 252 tons GRT vessel are Elcon Leisure, based in La Coruña, Galicia, Spain and with an office in Cornwall, England. The managing director is F Gallardo.

McVicar yesterday notified the MCA (UK Maritime and Coastguard Authority) about the situation:

RE   vessel “ENXEMBRE” – FLAG:  St. Kits

Please be advised the above vessel is currently moored in Ullapool.  The ITF Inspector and FOC/ Co-ordinator Mr Norrie McVicar is currently onboard the vessel.

The ITF onboard are currently investigating Wages and Hours of Work problems, it is believed that some of the crew have not been paid for 10 months.

There is a threat from the Master who may attempt to force the vessel to sail without agreement of the crew.  In affect this would mean the Master is abducting seven members of the crew.  The local Police have been notified of the situation.

Any Assistance the Port State Control can give would be appreciated.  I can be reached on my mobile phone which is 07768 652 257.

Yours sincerely

Norrie McVicar

ITF/FOC Coordinator