Labor

Spain is currently facing a crossroads regarding a 2005 regulation that opened its fleet to non EU seafarers in a time of economic uncertainty.

Fairplay reports:

The Merchant Shipping Directorate of Malta has issued a notice announcing its plans to increase the minimum wage for seafarers effective 1 January 2015.

Minimum Basic Wage

Merchant Shipping Notice 108 Rev 1

Finnish operator Viking Lines has seen an increase in profits resulting from reflagging two of its vessels last year.

Fairplay reports:

Viking Line sees improved 2013

The European Commission has issued a report addressing the importance that member states ratify the Maritime Labor Convention.

Ship management services provider OCRA Worldwide reports:

The Liberian Registry has been recognized in the Lloyd's List Global Safety Awards for its commitment to upholding seafarer standards beyond those set by the Maritime Labor Convention, as well as its efforts to bring home the crew of the abandoned A Whale, whose captain, Khan Jubail Niaz, was named Seafarer of the Year. The registry reports:

Viking Lines has confirmed speculation that it will reflag the Viking XPRS from Sweden to Estonia in January 2014 in an act to reduce crewing costs and increa

A recent Lloyd's List article suggests that the International Transport Workers Federation may be developing its understanding of the relationship between registry type and quality.

A recent Lloyd's List article suggests that the International Transport Workers Federation may be developing its understanding of the relationship between registry type and quality.