MARGAO
The Goan Seamen Association of India (GSAI) President Frank Viegas has called on the National Union Seafarers of India (NUSI) General Secretary cum Treasurer Milind Kandalgaonkar in Mumbai and handed over a representation with a plea to hike the monthly ex-gratia relief to widows of seafarers from Rs 200 to Rs 1,000.
The representation brought to the NSUI notice the hardship faced by seafarers, who are subjected to very harsh conditions at work. “With the rough seas, extreme heat, and cold conditions, sometimes even when the health conditions are not normal, the seamen are required to do the job to ensure that the vessel reaches the port of destination safely and at a scheduled time”, he said.
Frank added: “Working in the toughest working conditions, cut off from social life, away from family, and not available for them in the time they need us the most, taking up the Seafarers job itself is a big sacrifice, not only for our families but for our nation and the whole world”.
Saying that women play an important role in the life of the seamen, Frank pointed out that their families back home, including mothers/wives have to look after wellbeing of their children, household etc.
“At least the monthly monetary assistance should be raised from from Rs 200 to Rs 1,000 to the widows of seafarers taking into account their sacrifices”, he said.
