Seafarer tag for offshore casino workers soon?

Seafarer tag for offshore casino workers soon?
TNN 19 September 2009, The Times of India, Goa edition

PANAJI: Once India ratifies the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006, even a person working at gaming tables in offshore casinos in the state will be
called a seafarer. At the moment, only those who work aboard ships are called seafarers.

"India is yet to endorse the convention. But once it ratifies the convention, then all those employed as entertainers, security personnel, attendants and even those at gaming tables will be called seafarers and get the benefits that are available to seafarers. This will include casinos, both, in the sea or in-land waterways," said Suresh Idani, trustee, International Committee on Seafarers' Welfare, at a press conference on Friday which was called to throw light on the 10th international four day symposium on maritime health in Goa.

So far, only six of the sea faring nations have endorsed the convention. The International Labour Organization's Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 provides comprehensive rights and protection at work for more than 1.2 million seafarers working worldwide. Under the new convention, even the 1,000 plus individuals who are employed or engaged in offshore casinos in the state will become seafarers.

It also aims at promoting quality shipping and creating conditions of fair competition for ship owners in an industry that handles 90% of the world's trade.

19 September 2009, The Times of India, Goa edition