Crew Change in Hong Kong during COVID-19

COVID-19 outbreak lasted for half a year, seafarers from all over the world have been performing their duties and transporting goods, especially necessities, to all parts of the world, so that all countries can replenish their supplies under the epidemic situation. Therefore, our union considers that it is reasonable to allow crew changes in Hong Kong, which is also the right of seafarers. But at the same time, in order to reduce the concern of the local community on the impact of crew changes in Hong Kong during COVID-19, our Union believes that it is necessary that the government to further tighten the relevant quarantine measures, so as to ensure that the safety of crew changes in Hong Kong and to reduce direct contact with the local community.
 
There are 2 million seafarers in the world who are key players to ensure the world's cargo transportation. 90% of the global trade is carried by sea. Especially at this extraordinary period, the transportation of necessities is particularly important. As affected by COVID-19, hundreds of thousands of crew members have been stranded on ship for long time because crew changes are not possible. They were physically and mentally tired and look forward to returning home. As a Seamen's Union, our Union will try its best to help the stranded crew to go home as soon as possible.
 
As an international shipping center and an important hub port, Hong Kong plays a very important role in global shipping. In the early stage of COVID-19, in response to the needs and with the joint efforts of all the sectors within the industry, Hong Kong offered necessary favorable conditions for crew change which relieved the pressure of crew change to a certain extent.
 
In view of the recent development of COVID-19 in Hong Kong, our Union suggests that the government should take appropriate measures to continue to facilitate crew changes in Hong Kong while ensure the safety of the public community.
 
As always, our Union is committed to serving seafarers and promoting the development of shipping in Hong Kong. In this extraordinary period, let's work together to overcome all the difficulties.

Source: Hong Kong Seamen's Union

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