Margao: The Goa Seamen Association of India (GSAI) on Friday urged the Centre to address the deduction of $15 from seafarers’ salaries, expand welfare benefits for retired seafarers and widows, and resolve delays in disbursing welfare payments.
They raised their issues during a meeting with Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal.
A delegation comprising GSAI president Joseph Fernandes, secretary Michael Benny da Costa and former president Dixon Vaz met Sonowal along with NRI Commissioner Narendra Sawaikar and Minister for Ports Digambar Kamat and submitted a memorandum outlining the association’s pending issues.
GSAI sought clarity on the deduction from the salaries of crew members on cruise liners, stating that it is purportedly meant for the Seafarers’ Welfare Pension Fund (SWPS), although Indian crew members are not receiving any significant benefit from it.
“Instead, the money goes to DG Shipping and SWPS, causing unnecessary deductions on the hard-working seafarers who are already away from their families for months at a time. The welfare and wellbeing of the seafarer should be a top priority for the shipping industry,” the memorandum said.
GSAI said that certain modifications were necessary to ensure equitable implementation under the newly announced Old Age Benefit Scheme for persons aged 75 years by the Seafarers Welfare Fund Society, which provides financial support of Rs 1 lakh.
“Specifically, we urge you to consider extending this benefit to all retired seafarers, including widows of deceased seafarers who are 75 years and above,” it said.
The association also highlighted issues relating to the Seafarers’ Welfare Fund Society’s Monthly Ex Gratia Monetary Assistance (MEMA) welfare scheme, particularly the one-time lump sum payment.
“Many retired seafarers and widows who are registered with the SWFS have received notifications regarding this scheme. While some beneficiaries have successfully collected the amount, a substantial number have yet to receive their due amounts,” GSAI said.
