Nautilus International has urged the UK government to include a robust commitment to seafarer skills and training in its new £1.1 billion maritime investment plan. The union argues that without investing in its people, the UK risks missing the full economic and national security benefits of its maritime assets.
The Union’s Stance
Nautilus International, a trade union representing maritime professionals, welcomed the government’s investment in ports and clean technologies. However, general secretary Mark Dickinson stated that infrastructure alone is not enough to ensure maritime resilience. He cautioned that the funding could be a “repackaging of existing commitments” and that the critical need for seafarer training and skills development remains unaddressed. Dickinson emphasized that a skilled workforce is essential for the safe and efficient operation of ships and ports.
The Need for Seafarer Investment
Dickinson highlighted that Britain’s maritime sector is vital for the nation’s economy and national security. He pointed out the decline in UK seafarer numbers, despite the recent global pandemic and supply chain disruptions demonstrating their crucial role. The union wants assurance that new jobs created by the investment will be highly skilled, fairly paid, and accompanied by investment in skills for both shoreside and at-sea roles.
A Missed Opportunity
Nautilus International believes that the lack of mention of seafarers in the government’s initiative is a missed opportunity. Other maritime nations, the union argues, heavily invest in their seafarer training programs because they recognize the strategic importance of maintaining these skills for national capability. The union is calling on the government to demonstrate the same commitment to the people who will operate and utilize the new maritime infrastructure.
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Source: Nautilus
