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ireland / britain |
workplace struggles |
opinion / analysis
Tuesday February 05, 2008 08:42 by Gregor Kerr
When Irish Ferries launched their new €50million vessel in Dublin Port on Tuesday 29th January, 400 guests from the tourism, freight and shipping sectors attended the naming ceremony. How many of them, I wonder, took a moment as they quaffed their champagne and nibbled on their canapés to ponder on the news revealed by International Transport Workers Federation inspector, Ken Fleming, that the workers who would be manning the ferry will be paid as little as €4 per hour? Workers on the ship are virtual slaves. Just like the workers on the Irish Ferries ships which ply the Ireland – Britain route, the workers on this vessel are not allowed to leave the ships when not on shift, are not allowed to join a trade union and are paid a wage which is less than half the minimum wage in Ireland. Workers on the Ireland – Britain route are known to work 12-hour shifts seven days a week. |
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Jump To Comment: 1The previous persons comment about the staff on the Ferries is a little uninformed. Its a pity that they did not get rid of the original staff earlier. Before the changes the customer service was a disgrace and the level of hygiene, attitude and professionalism was terrible. I do not wish the individuals any ill-will but they as a group were partially responsible for the need for revolutionary changes.
I travelled with Irish Ferries again last summer to Roscoff (new "slave" staff) with my family. While the old ship was a bit "tired" the staff were brilliant. The customer sevice and professionalism was great.
We live in a competitive world and the staff from eastern Europe are doing the best for themselves. They signed on for the company knowing the terms. Do not insult thteir intelligence or professionalism - they have dignity in their jobs and themselves.
I look forward to my trip with them to France this summer.