Church awaits action on inquiry recommendations

“The Government has taken some encouraging steps towards preventing the appalling slavery-like conditions that exist in our waters,” the Anglican Church said today.

The government today committed to picking up 6 of the 15 recommendations of the Ministerial Inquiry into the use of Foreign Charter Vessels (FCVs).

“Requiring New Zealand companies to pay wages directly into the crew’s bank accounts is a particularly important step. The Oyang 75 crew still has not been paid, nor has the Government auditor been able to trace where their money went,” spokesperson Jolyon White said.

The Anglican Church was heavily involved in supporting the 33 crewmembers of the Oyang 75 whose July walk-off was instrumental in sparking the inquiry.

“We should make clear that although today’s results are positive, the slavery-like conditions on vessels in our waters was already against many laws and regulations,” Rev White said.

“It is the follow through that is important; only then will these recommendations impact the lives and conditions of workers on FCVs.

“In the meantime, the provision of an independent welfare office in port, accessible to crew, is vital while recommendations are being rolled out. We look forward to seeing how the government will make provision for this,” Rev White said.

ENDS

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