XII.
30
MISCELLANEOUS
(a) Social and Welfare Aspects
The Government should make clearer its intentions regarding social matters such as provision of welfare facilties including repatriation; the introduction of occupational health and safety arrangements on ships; the social security provisions for seafarers and other measures which are the subject of various ILO conventions. (NUMAST)
Seamen
More attention should be given to the welfare of seafarers at home and abroad in the Register. should be given training by experienced and specialised social workers as part of their training course on subjects including life at sea, use of leisure time, sexual, drug and alcohol abuse; family stresses, hygiene, etc. (MSAS)
A fund similar to the Road Traffic Compensation Fund should be set up on a ship by ship basis with a fee payable to the fund on initial registry of a ship. This fund would be used to compensate any crew member who failed to receive his contractual payments from a shipowner who becomes insolvent. This would cover wages and compensation for injuries etc.
The feasibility should be studied of a levy on all employers employing Hong Kong seafarers on both Hong Kong ships and others. This fund would be used to compensate any Hong Kong seafarer who is denied his entitlement whether on a Hong Kong ship or other. (MNOG)
The Administration should undertake a careful study of existing ILO Conventions and Recommendations, not only of those referring specifically to seafarers but also to general ones which are also applicable to seafarers. Consideration should be given to drawing up model collective agreements and a social charter applicable to Hong Kong seafarers. (ITF)
(b) The Position of Ferries and Craft in the River Trade
If ferries and hovercrafts are to be registered under the Hong Kong Registry, a distinction must be made between these ferries operating in local waters and river trade and ocean-going vessels. Separate provisions, such as on standards of manning and equipment, should be made for them as appropriate. The level of fees and dues to be charged on them must also be affordable. (YMT)