New Zealand ratifies convention on fair treatment of seafarers

Foreign shipping companies must ensure they treat their crews according to international minimum standards when they visit New Zealand from next year, the government said Wednesday.

New Zealand had ratified the International Labour Organisation' s Maritime Labour Convention to ensure fair treatment of seafarers and protect the reputation of New Zealand exports, Workplace Relations and Safety Minister Michael Woodhouse and Associate Transport Minister Craig Foss said in a statement.

The convention, which sets minimum standards to address the health, safety and welfare of seafarers on commercial vessels, would come into force from March 8 next year.

"Ratifying the convention gives New Zealand the power to verify that crew on foreign ships carrying New Zealand goods are treated fairly and within internationally accepted standards," Woodhouse said.

"This includes medical care, health and safety protection, accommodation, food and water, repatriation, and employment conditions."

Foss said ratifying the convention would also protect the reputation of New Zealand exports.

"This is important given more than 99 percent of New Zealand's export goods by volume are transported on foreign ships," said Foss.

The convention will apply to about 890 foreign commercial cargo and cruise ships visiting New Zealand annually, and approximately 30 New Zealand ships.