We continue to share information about services and support resources available to women cruise ship workers. This time, we introduce the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) and its global network of inspectors.
The ITF is an international trade union federation that works to protect the rights of workers across different transport sectors. In the maritime sector, it has a network of more than 130 inspectors and union contacts based in ports around the world.
What can an ITF inspector do?
ITF inspectors can provide information, guidance and assistance with issues related to contracts, wages, repatriation, and working and living conditions on board. They can also meet with crew members, contact companies, calculate unpaid wages, and provide guidance on the legal options available in the port where the vessel is located.
The network enables inspectors, union contacts and affiliated unions in different countries to communicate and coordinate their actions. Therefore, a worker arriving in Uruguay does not necessarily have to begin by contacting the inspector based in Montevideo. She can contact a member of the network in English or, when an inspector or union contact speaks her language, communicate in her own language. That person can provide guidance and, if necessary, contact the inspector in Uruguay.
How can you find an ITF inspector?
On the ITF Seafarers website, you can search for the nearest inspector, union contact or affiliated union. The free "ITF Seafarers" app also allows you to access this information from your phone.
Find an inspector or union:
ITF Seafarers – Look up a Ship, Inspector or Union
Support team email:
seafsupport@itf.org.uk
ITF contact in Uruguay
The ITF has an inspector in Uruguay who also coordinates its network for Latin America and the Caribbean:
Adán Suárez
ITF Inspector and Coordinator of the Network for Latin America and the Caribbean
Phone +598 99 569 656
Correo electrónico: suarez_adan@itf.org.uk