NEWS of the impending retirement of MUA national secretary Paddy Crumlin flags the end of an era in Australian waterfront and shipping history.
Mr Crumlin will step down after a quarter of a century of leadership of the MUA, to be succeeded next February by Jake Field. He will continue to work for the union, with some suggesting his eventual departure will be in a container (of sorts).
DCN invited prominent industry people to comment.
MIAL chief executive Angela Gillham told DCN:
“While we have disagreed, at times strongly, with positions and actions of the MUA during his leadership tenure, we do not question his enthusiasm in representing his members, his understanding of the strategic importance of Australian maritime capability, and his continuing support of taxation reform to level the playing field for Australian operators competing in an international industry. Paddy could never be accused of not using every ounce of his seemingly boundless energy to see Australian seafarers on Australian ships and encouraging Australians to pursue a career at sea.
“We congratulate Paddy on a career that has been dedicated to the advancement of not only Australian seafarers, whom he has represented with vigour, wit and strident determination with a focus on the safe operation of vessels, but also as president of the ITF where he has helped raised the employment standards of the millions of seafarers plying the seas to support global trade.
“While many a maritime employer may have grumbled under their breath as they faced the prospect of Paddy across the bargaining table, he usually came with an eye on the bigger picture and an ability to persuade those across the table of the merits of his arguments, or at the very least, was clear on the consequences of a failure to appreciate those merits.
“We wish Paddy all the best, thank him for his service to his members, the Australian industry and the international dialogue which has immeasurably improved the lot of seafarers the world over.”
Former ANL CEO John Lines – an industry icon in his own right – told DCN:
“Paddy Crumlin is a remarkable individual. His intellect and turn of phrase was something to behold. I enjoyed dealing with Paddy even when we disagreed - which at times could be incredibly volatile. However I always respected his position as a fighter for his Union. Having dealt with Paddy for decades I have come to know him as a friend and I enjoy his company. His leadership in the MUA will be missed.”
Qube Holdings managing director Paul Digney added:
"Whether it's in a professional capacity or personal one, Paddy has always been a passionate advocate for the values and causes he believes in. Always great company to have a yarn with on his views. I wish him well as he embarks on this next chapter."