ITF sounds alarm over new Canal locks

THE International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) has voiced concerns about the safety of the new Panama Canal  locks and  what it sees as a growing threat of privatization.

The ITF is holding a conference in Panama in recognition of the country’s role as a key global transport hub.

In a Friday October 21 statement the ITF , said  that the Panama Canal Authority (ACP) carried out a study in 2011 to determine the type and size of the tugboat fleet necessary to operate the new locks.

Their findings pointed towards a certain amount of personnel, tugs and other resources as well as training and operational procedures needed that are lacking today.

Despite the revised lock plans the ACP  chose not to increase its tugboat fleets.

Now the lack of vessels has been used as an excuse for chartering 12 tugboats from private and anti-union companies says the ITF

“This has led to them working longer hours for less pay, without union protection”, said the atatement

“There are particular worries over fatigue and the increased accident risk associated with it.”

 Accidents
The ITF commissioned a maneuverability study that determined the risks of the operation planned by the Canal and offered a series of suggestions that would reduce the risks.

“Unfortunately the ACP did not implement any of those precautionary measures and accidents have taken place in the new locks that are very similar to those raised as risks by the study.”