THE International Transport Workers Federation (ITF) has slammed countries, including the Caribbean and Malta, which have banned ships from entering ports overs fears of Ebola infection.
"If someone is infected on a ship then they and the rest of the crew urgently need medical help," said the union, reported Lloyd's List.
The ITF has branded such action "unacceptable and contrary to the traditions of the sea," and goes against the rules of the International Maritime Organisation, the World Health Organisation, the WHO Ship Sanitation Guidelines, and the Maritime Labour Convention.
A spokesperson said the ITF's advice, prepared with the International Maritime Employers' Council and the International Chamber of Shipping "remains the same for those operators and seafarers who are prepared to call.
"Educate crews about the risks, seriously consider whether shore leave is appropriate, avoid crew changes."
The ITF is "greatly concerned" about recent cases in the Caribbean of barring ships, and about Malta's behaviour in turning away a vessel wrongly suspected of having an Ebola sufferer on board.
WORLD SHIPPING
23 October 2014 - 19:35
Union federation blasts countries that turn ships away on Ebola fears
THE International Transport Workers Federation (ITF) has slammed countries, including the Caribbean and Malta, which have banned ships from entering ports overs fears of Ebola infection.
WORLD SHIPPING
23 October 2014 - 19:35
Union federation blasts countries that turn ships away on Ebola fears
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