Port-based seafarers’ welfare in Canada: resources and gaps

Abstract

The ultimate intention of seafarer welfare services is for maritime workers to be served in Canada as systematically and effectively as possible while considering the greatest possible sensitivity to their needs. This paper provides an overview of such services available in Canadian ports and includes case studies of the Port of St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador (NL), and of the Catholic seafarers’ ministry, Stella Maris. Two research questions were addressed: 1) where and how is the welfare of foreign seafarers in Canadian ports inadequate, and 2) how can the expertise and resources of those already involved be marshalled to improve support? Existing research on seafarers’ welfare was synthesized, seafarers’ welfare professionals across Canada consulted through interviews and surveys, and key informants were interviewed in the Port of St. John’s, NL. The research findings show that Canadian charities, businesses, government, and labour representatives are united in support of seafarers’ welfare. Furthermore, there is a general interest in filling gaps where they are found, particularly through participation in the Canadian National Seafarers’ Welfare Board. Welfare organizations also actively promote cooperation, professionalism, and the development of new resources for seafarers’ welfare. However, there are still gaps: foreign seafarers are offered a wide range of services in many Canadian ports but internet and enforcement of the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006′s standards for shore leave and crew change are still pressing welfare issues. Welfare workers are stretched thin everywhere and some busy ports must make do with the best efforts of shipping agents where welfare workers are absent. In response to these limitations to seafarer welfare supports, we recommend that the Canadian government, as agents active within a maritime nation, and the maritime community take a more active role in supporting seafarers’ welfare, including financially and through welfare boards.