TEAM HERALD
MARGAO: The Goan Seamen Association of India on Tuesday called on Chief Minister Laxmikant Parsekar and demanded the constitution of the Seafarers Cell on a priority basis.
A GSAI delegation led by president Dixon Vaz, Asst. Secretary Franklin D’Costa and member Frank Viegas along with South Goa MP Narendra Sawaikar met the Chief Minister and submitted a detailed memorandum laying stress on the Seafarers Cell.
The delegation pointed out that the seafarers and their families have been waiting for the government to constitute the Seafarers Cell since the last two years and half, adding that the issue has been pending since the last Assembly election after former Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar promised to look into the demand.
The chief minister gave the delegation a patient hearing and has assured to look into the issue. The GSAI also requested the chief minister to invite companies to set up a nautical college in Goa.
The memorandum stated that the seafarers’ cell will create a link between the government and the seafarers’ community where seafarers and their families can obtain necessary information and help in times of emergency.
“A Seafarers cell can help coordinate with port state control, flag state authorities, international transport workers federation and various unions for the well being of the seafarers,” Vaz stated.
