10:00, 14 August 2010

Ukrainian seamen still on strike in Novorossisk

For the fourth week already the trade ship "REF 607" remains in the sea port of the city of Novorossisk, Krasnodar Territory; the crew refuse to go to sea or ashore in protest against their salary debts. For two weeks the ship owner is inaccessible by communication means. Should there be no news from him within the next few days, the ship may be arrested.

The "REF 607" is in the sea port since July 19. The whole crew (nine person) are citizens of Ukraine, the company-ship owner - "Kenset Assets S. A." - is in Lithuania, the ship went under the guise of Moldova, and the goods were brought from Egypt.

The Russian Trade Union of Seamen reports that the "Kenset Assets S. A." owes some 60,000 US dollars to the seamen, and every day the debt goes up by 513 dollars. Besides, the company has run into debt to the agency which had supplied foodstuffs, water and fuel to the crew at its own expense. The Ukrainian seamen are also preparing suits asking to arrest the "REF 607".

Author: Albina Astakhova

Source: CK correspondent