SIPTU representatives have today (Thursday, 15th November) called for better protections and safety protocols for all dock and port workers following the tragic death yesterday (Wednesday, 14th November) of seafarer, Dennis Gomez Regana, from the Philippines, on Southbank Quay in Dublin city. SIPTU Ports, Docks and Harbour Organiser, Jerry Brennan said: “SIPTU representatives have been campaigning with all stakeholders across Ireland and the UK over recent years to highlight our members’ concerns on lashing and securing. This tragedy in Dublin port, the third in 18 months, is ultimately the consequence of the relevant authorities, including ship owners, agents and operators, not listening to or heeding our members’ warnings and implementing best practice.” He added: “The only way further incidents can be eradicated, or at least minimised, is through the introduction of a certified training programme for seafarers. A Safe Pass Certificate similar to the one used in the Irish construction industry should also be put in place for all dock workers as a matter of urgency. We are calling on the Minister for Transport and his department to meet with union representatives in order to ensure that these measures are introduced as a matter of urgency.” ITF Inspector, Michael Whelan, said: “Lashing and securing is a hard, dangerous job that has long been the subject of dispute. The International Transport Workers Union (ITF) has consistently campaigned for this job to be regulated and certified with trained shoreside dockers carrying out the task.” He added: “The shipping owners and operators have resisted this and have instead insisted that seafarers carry out the job. The ITF believe that seafarers should not do this work, but instead, while in port, they should be allowed to rest and prepare for their next voyage.” The ITF and SIPTU extends its deepest and most sincere condolences to the family of Dennis Gomez Regana, his fellow crew members and friends.
SIPTU calls for better protections and protocols for dock workers
