Rules For FOC Vessels To Come

Negotiations to adopt international working conditions for seafarers on flag of convenience (FoC) vessels will start for the first time next year. It is the first time shipping employers and unions have agreed to negotiate voluntary terms and conditions on an international level, the International Transport Workers Federation (ITF) and the International Maritime Employer Committee (IMEC ) said in a joint statement. "Negotiations will start in February 2000 which will lead to the adoption of a model agreement covering the terms and conditions of employment acceptable to employers and the ITF, which can be brought into effect from January 1, 2001," they said.