The Anna-Elisabeth, a Liberian-registered vessel, has been detained by Australian authorities following complaints by the on-board international crew of insufficient food, bullying and their shore leave being denied.
Their complaints were received by the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) on 25 March. The ITF immediately acted by conducting a two-hour inspection of the bulk carrier.
ITF national co-ordinator Dean Summers verified the crew’s concerns, finding inadequate stores on board.
He also confirmed that the crew had not had shore leave since 23 January in South Africa.
“It is our suspicion that this company is under intense financial pressure and has sought to save money wherever it can. The master confirmed the food ration was $7 per day for all meals,” Summers added.
The vessel will continue to be detained by the Australian Maritime Safety Authority while investigations continue.
