Published on VesselFinder.com:
The ITF (International Transport Workers’ Federation) is reiterating its case regarding the possible risks to safety posed by the Panama Canal’s new locks.
This latest information comes after the Panama Canal Authority (PCA) published a press release which attempted to deny the serious points of concern raised by an independent safety study commissioned by the ITF.
ITF general secretary Steve Cotton explained: “The ITF, like our Panamanian member unions, has repeatedly offered the PCA our co-operation to ensure that the canal is safe for those working on it and those passing through it. … We have raised our concerns about operational safety issues several times. In December 2013 we wrote to President Martinelli and the PCA, and in July 2014 to President Varela and the Minister of Canal Affairs, citing safety concerns and offering our assistance. In June 2015 we wrote to Jorge Quijano, PCA CEO, requesting a meeting. This was followed by a further letter offering a meeting around the 2015 International Chamber of Shipping Conference in London, which Sr Quijano was addressing. The ITF has also met officials from the ACP and, informally, with Sr Quijano, at Panama Maritime 2015.
Mr Cotton continued: “In all our contacts we have sought constructive engagement and to ensure the safe and efficient operation of the canal. We continue to believe that such engagement is the way forward. We continue to aim for inclusive risk assessment to improve occupational safety and health. Involving all members of the work team in that process is essential.”