OTTAWA, ONTARIO, June 15, 2010-Today, the Honourable Lisa Raitt, Minister of Labour, announced Canada's ratification of the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006. This ratification, which was approved at the 99th Session of the International Labour Conference in Geneva, Switzerland, will enhance health and safety protections for workers on board vessels.
"The Government of Canada is committed to improving working conditions for seafarers in Canada and around the world, while advancing fair labour rules for the shipping industry," said Minister Raitt. "By ratifying this convention, our government affirms our dedication to working with our international partners to promote workers' rights."
The Maritime Labour Convention, 2006, consolidates and updates 68 existing International Labour Organization maritime conventions and recommendations adopted since 1920. Ratification of the Convention will allow Canada to inspect foreign ships arriving in Canadian ports to determine their conformity with modern labour standards that are already being applied on Canadian vessels.
"Ratification of this convention signals Canada's continued support of the creation of binding international regimes and uniform international rules for the maritime labour sector," said the Honourable Lawrence Cannon, Minister of Foreign Affairs.
The Convention supports Canada's goal of creating a fair, safe, productive and cooperative work environment. This convention will come into force in Canada 12 months after its ratification, provided it has met the criteria to be ratified internationally by the required number of member states of the International Labour Organization.
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This news release is available in alternative formats upon request.
For further information (media only):
Jocelyne Turner
Press Secretary
Office of Minister Raitt
819-953-5646
Media Relations Office
Human Resources and Skills Development Canada
819-994-5559
