Call to get on board Port of Richards Bay welfare group
The aim of the structure is to improve the welfare services and support made available to seafarers
THE inauguration of a Port Welfare Committee (PWC) at the Port of Richards Bay will take place on 29 August and a call is being made for support for the fledgling local body.
The aim of the structure is to improve the welfare services and support made available to seafarers.
These include ship visiting, a seafarers centre, transport and providing seafarers with access to shops, the internet and communications with home, together with support during times of need.
‘Our objective is to be a platform where people involved in the welfare of seafarers can network and meet around the same table, for the timeous and effective benefit of seafarers visiting our beautiful Port of Richards Bay,’ said Mission to Seafarers (MtS) Chaplain, Mark Classen, who is co-ordinating the PWC launch.
A working group has been established and is currently engaged with identified key role players, primarily from within the shipping industry and allied bodies, but also from welfare and faith-based organisations, as well as relevant government departments and local authorities.
‘Obviously, Transnet National Ports Authority is a major partner and we welcome their positive participation and support,’ said Classen.
‘There are many potential instances that could affect the well-being of seafarers in addition to their personal circumstances, and we want to have all the bases covered.
‘These could range from contagious health issues to environmental concerns emanating from exposure to port products, as well as accidents and incidents that could have personal repercussions.’
Interested and affected parties are welcome to contact Chaplain Classen to indicate attendance at the launch once details are finalised, and to give input that could be of value to the working group.
Call 035 7979348 or email mark.classen@mtsmail.org
The International Port Welfare Partnership Programme (IPWP) is managed by the staff of the Merchant Navy Welfare Board (MNWB), who have a wealth of knowledge and experience in both operating and setting up welfare boards.
The programme aims to develop a global network of welfare boards and port welfare committees for the benefit of seafarers.
For further information visit www.portwelfare.org
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