Seafarers’ role in protecting marine environment focus of MAJ webinar

THE IMPORTANCE of seafarers in preserving the marine environment and ensuring international maritime regulations are properly enforced was the focus of a high-level webinar hosted by the Maritime Authority of Jamaica (MAJ) on June 29.

Trade and development specialist Patricia Francis highlighted the actions Jamaica is taking to safeguard its marine environment, preserve fish populations, protect biodiversity, and ensure sustainability, challenging, “Why should we care?”

Francis outlined the importance of the blue economy to Jamaica and the Caribbean region, spelling out the vital contribution the marine environment makes to Jamaica’s gross domestic product, its trade, export, and employment market.

The critical position that seafarers find themselves in when balancing maritime operations with marine protection was emphasised in a presentation by Dr Carolyn Graham, a senior lecturer at the Caribbean Maritime University and advocate for the safety, health and welfare of seafarers.

Seafarers are expected to be the custodians of regulations but are not always properly supported in their role, said Dr Graham, who demonstrated how they could be unfairly criminalised for the actions in the event of an environmental incident, even when marine investigators confirm they have followed international maritime procedures.

Pointing to a 2019 survey by Nautilus International, which found criminalisation to be one of the greatest fears of seafarers, Dr Graham said seafarers can be seen as “easy targets” when countries demand consequences. She urged seafarers to know their rights, how to find help, and ensure they work for reputable companies.

Training is crucial to equip seafarers with the up-to-date skills they need to properly operate the latest technology and comply with maritime regulations, according to Captain Devron Newman, dean of the Faculty of Marine and Nautical Studies at the Caribbean Maritime University.

He said digital solutions, such as e-learning and virtual reality tools, provide additional training opportunities to enable seafarers to upskill as onboard technology rapidly evolves, although he stressed that there will always be a need for hands-on experience and in-person tutelage.

The webinar, which formed part of the MAJ’s week of activities in celebration of Day of the Seafarer, also featured Second Officer Darren Gordon and marine surveyor Sheldon Clarke. It was moderated by Sean Maloney, chief executive officer of Elaborate Communications and cofounder of London International Shipping Week.