New Zealand’s decision to ratify the Maritime Labour Convention will strengthen systems for successful exporting, says BusinessNZ.

The New Zealand Government today announced its ratification of the Convention aimed at ensuring fair treatment of seafarers.

The Convention allows New Zealand authorities to inspect foreign ships carrying New Zealand exports, to verify that the treatment of crew meets health, safety and welfare standards. New Zealand registered ships are already consistent with the Convention’s standards.

BusinessNZ Chief Executive Phil O’Reilly says the Convention will also provide protection from potential allegations of the mistreatment of crew on foreign ships carrying New Zealand goods.

“New Zealand exporters use foreign ships for most of their goods shipped overseas, and incidents of crew mistreatment on some foreign ships have the potential to cause reputational harm to New Zealand products. This will help protect the reputation of New Zealand exports.”

BusinessNZ was New Zealand’s employer representative in the negotiations towards the Convention.

Contact Phil O’Reilly 04 4966552 or KathrynAsare 021 555 744

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