THE UK’S Maritime and Coastguard Agency has launched a consultation exercise on proposed changes to the Maritime Labour Convention, the treaty that effectively provides a floor to seafarer employment rights worldwide.

MLC, as it is known, was agreed by the International Labour Organisation in 2006 and came into force in 2013.

The latest set of amendments, which include changes to the stipulations on recruitment services, repatriation, recreational facilities and food on board, kick in on December 23.

Further changes under discussion include the provision of internet access for crew use and strengthened requirements for a balanced, nutritious and varied diet.

The MCA argues that the pandemic underlined the need for seafarers to remain in touch with friends and family through social media and messaging apps while at sea.

Bringing national guidance into law and clarifying dietary requirements will ensure seafarers have access to a range of meals with a mix of carbohydrates, protein, fat, fibre, vitamins and minerals.

Other proposed regulations include providing seafarers with adequate information around how to protect themselves from monetary loss, and a more robust system to clarify who is financially accountable for a vessel.

The consultation was launched earlier this week and will last for six weeks, ending on January 22 next year.