1 August 2025
RMT Press Office:
Seafarers’ union RMT have highlighted figures from the Fishguard–Rosslare ferry route that prove the case for a mandatory, legally enforceable seafarers’ charter to protect jobs, safety and service standards in the UK ferry industry.
Passenger numbers on the Stena Line-operated Fishguard route were nearly 10% higher in 2024 compared to 2019 – bucking a wider trend of lower volumes across Ro-Ro ferry ports, post-pandemic.
In contrast, passenger numbers on Irish Ferries’ Pembroke–Rosslare service, which uses a P&O-style low-cost crewing model, have collapsed, falling by nearly 50% in 2024 compared to 2019.
This crewing model not only drives down wages and conditions but also relies on fatigue-inducing roster patterns that endanger both safety and service quality.
RMT says the key difference is that Stena Line recognises the union, and operates under collective bargaining agreements, ensuring decent pay and conditions for their seafarers.
This approach also supports local communities by sustaining decent jobs in Fishguard and the surrounding area.
This has delivered better services for passengers and confidence from the operator, which is now investing up to £20 million in linkspan upgrades at Fishguard port.
RMT general secretary Eddie Dempsey said: “These Fishguard figures prove that decent jobs, conditions and union recognition deliver better services for passengers.
"Our members at sea and in the port have adapted to rising demand, stepped up after the closure of Holyhead, and helped safeguard a vital transport link, all while facing low-cost competition from Irish Ferries.
"It is clear where there are union-negotiated terms and conditions, there is stability, reliability and growth in the industry.
"But where operators chase short-term profit by working seafarers to the bone, using exploitative crewing models and fatigue inducing rosters, the service suffers.
"That is why we support the government’s plans for a mandatory, legally binding seafarers’ charter.
"We need national standards to stop the race to the bottom and protect jobs, safety and passenger services.”
END
Notes:
RMT is campaigning for a
mandatory seafarers' charter that covers ferries operating out of UK ports.
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Tagged with: RMT, Eddie Dempsey, Seafarers, Charter
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