Team Herald
MARGAO: Spokesperson of Goa Seamen Association of India Dixon Vas has appealed to all seafarers from Goa not to sign any form that they may receive from the Director General Shipping or Seafarers Welfare Fund Society and said the Association would meet shortly and accordingly guide seafarers.
Many retired seafarers have reportedly received letters stating that the monthly ex-gratia of Rs 200 that was being paid to them will be stopped from July 1, 2018 as there are no funds to pay the ex-gratia. It would be pertinent to note that 40 years ago the monthly ex gratia monetary assistance was started by the Seafarers Welfare Fund Society.
Under this scheme every retired seafarer who was registered with the society would receive every month Rs 200 as ex-gratia and upon his death his nominated wife would be paid Rs 400 every month. This scheme is sought to be withdrawn.
Retired seafarers are now given an option of opting out of the Monthly Ex-Gratia Monetary Assistance scheme and instead opt for a lump sum settlement of Rs 12,500.
“Opting for a settlement of Rs 12,500 is ridiculous as it is a pittance compared to the sacrifices seafarers and their families have made and we shall meet shortly to decide upon this matter,” said Dixon while appealing to all seafarers not to sign any form.
