MPs laud bill to better protect seafarers

MEMBERS of Parliament (MPs) yesterday called for a more direct role for the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) as Singapore took decisive steps to adopt the International Labour Organization's (ILO) Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) 2006.

The Merchant Shipping Bill was read in Parliament yesterday as MPs lauded its adoption to protect seafarers in Singapore and for harmonising labour regulations in the maritime industry with international standards.

Trade unionist and MP for Nee Soon GRC Patrick Tay said the bill "will strengthen the protection of our seafarers in terms of employment, health, working and living conditions" and that it will "be instrumental in protecting seafarers in the recovery of…