THE International Support Vessel Owners’ Association, which represents owners and operators of support vessels in the offshore energy sector, has called on all stakeholders to implement the principles set out in the Neptune Declaration.
The association has signed the Declaration committing its members to play their part in drawing the world’s attention to the humanitarian issues and challenges seafarers are facing because of the restrictions implemented by governments to control the COVID-19 pandemic.
The principles of the Declaration include recognising seafarers as key workers and treating them accordingly by giving them early access to COVID-19 vaccinations for example.
The Declaration also promotes increased collaboration between ship operators and charterers to facilitate crew changes and ensuring airline connectivity between key maritime hubs.
In a statement, ISOA said, “The objective of solving the crew change crisis and ensuring the wellbeing of our seafarers cannot be achieved without committed action from other parties.
“The offshore energy sector plays an important part in ensuring that the global economy can continue to prosper during the pandemic, and it is vital that the role played by our seafarers is recognised, and that their health and wellbeing is protected.”
The Neptune Declaration has been signed by more than 600 organisations to date.
