Migrant labour abuses in UK fishing investigated

In an article published in June 2023, the paper alleged that a four-strong Filipino crew on board a trawler working out of Kilkeel in Northern Ireland had their lives put in danger, were exploited for labour and threatened with deportation.

“We are determined to use our collective and individual influence to support action to address the serious issues faced by migrant fishers working the UK fishing sector,” said a statement issued by SEA Alliance.

Concerns regarding the treatment of migrant fishers working in the UK fishing industry have been highlighted for some time, notably in papers published last year by the University of Nottingham and the International Transport Workers’ Federation.

Much of the exploitation is thought to arise from the use of ‘transit visas’ which leaves workers without proper employment rights. This loophole is to be closed by the UK government but problems persist.

Support

The SEA Alliance has established a Human Rights Allegation Engagement Group and created an action plan aimed at improving working and recruitment practices in UK fishing. “We are now providing support to ITF and [seafarers’ charity] Stella Maris to directly engage foreign fishers across the UK to ensure they are aware of their rights and are able to access support where they need it,” said the statement.

One member of the alliance is also producing a series of information films for new foreign crew, translated into a number of languages and due to launch shortly. The SEA Alliance is also providing support to an industry-led initiative in Northern Ireland aimed at improving safety through vessel assessments and capacity building for vessel owners.

Finally, the SEA Alliance says it is working closely with civil society organisations and fishing sector organisations to explore the feasibility of a Worker Driven Social Responsibility pilot in the Scottish fishing sector.