The International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) and Joint Negotiating Group (JNG) met in Manila from 19-22 February 2018, for the final round of negotiations for the creation of the new IBF Framework Agreement 2019-2022. On 23 February 2018, the ITF’s expanded Fair Practices Committee Steering Group (FPC SG) met and approved the terms of the new International Bargaining Forum (IBF) Agreement.
The members of the FPC SG highlighted the new terms agreed in Article 4, Non-Seafarers Work or the “Dockers’ Clause”, as it is often referred to, as a significant development in securing work for dockers. The revised clause and the new implementation procedure clarifies the dockers’ right to carry out lashing and other cargo handling services in ports.
Paddy Crumlin, ITF president and chair of the Dockers’ Section, said: “The signing of the Dockers’ Clause represents a recognition of the importance of having trained, experienced dockers undertaking this dangerous work. It’s a win for both seafarers and dockers in an environment where some shipowners continue to exploit seafarers and dockers. Conditions, safety and wages are under attack from companies like Philippines-based International Container Terminal Services, Inc. (ICTSI). This Agreement shows the power of solidarity across all maritime workers.”
Ray Familathe, ILWU international vice-president (USA), said: “This is a tremendous achievement for dockers across the world. Lashing is a key part of a docker’s role. History has been made today.”