The 7,000 ton freighter ‘Pioneer Atlantic’ at the Aughinish Aluminia facility in Foynes was allowed to move out into the Shannon estuary off Moneypoint on Wednesday (10th October) as crew members wishing to leave because of concerns over safety depart. The first two crew members to do so, the Boson and an able seaman, flew home to the Philippines from Shannon Airport later that day.
However, it will be Friday before the First Officer, Chief Engineer and Assistant Chief Engineer can be replaced and they have agreed to remain with the ship until then. SIPTU Industrial Organiser Tony Carroll said, “The fact that the three most senior officers on board after the Captain are not happy to sail with this ship in its present condition is testimony enough to the state it is in.
“It is to be regretted that Port State Control has not yet seen fit to inspect the vessel, especially as 19 other crew members are opting to stay on board because they do not feel they can afford to leave for a variety of reasons. It is still possible for Port State Control to redeem itself by despatching an inspector to Foynes to examine the vessel between now and Friday.”
SIPTU has ensured payment of wages due to the five departing crew members totalling €27,252. International Transport Workers Federation Co-Ordinator Ken Fleming thanked Tony Carroll and SIPTU Divisional Organiser Christy McQuillan for their assistance. “It is a pity that the state agency with primary responsibility for health and safety in this area saw fit to leave these seafarers to their own devices. As Tony Carroll says, it is still not too late for them to act.”
