Decision to allow ETUC to support ITF case reflects significance of appeal outcome for protection of workers’ rights across Europe.
The Court of Appeal of The Hague has granted the European Trade Union Confederation (ETUC) permission to join appeal proceedings on the validity of the ‘Non-Seafarers’ Work Clause’ (NSWC).
The ETUC’s intervention in the case aligns with and supports the position of the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) and its affiliated unions – that seafarers are at risk when, on top of their standard duties, they have to do cargo handling in ports instead of trained dock workers.
“The ETUC’s decision to join this case sends a clear message: Europe’s trade union movement will not stand by while collective bargaining rights are put at risk,” said Stephen Cotton, ITF General Secretary. “We welcome the Court’s decision to allow ETUC to intervene and we will continue to defend the right of workers and unions to negotiate and enforce collective agreements.” (....)