Jiggers anchored in the port of Mar del Plata. (Photo: StockFile)

Labour conflict complicates squid jiggers sailing out

ARGENTINA
Friday, January 18, 2013, 23:00 (GMT + 9)

Argentine Association of captains, pilots and skippers criticized the Argentine Chamber of Jigger Fishing Vessels Shipowners (CAPA) for failing to appear at the meeting convened by the Ministry of Labour to discuss a wages increase.

Following this refusal, the guild decided the non-fulfilment of the normal duties at the start of the fishing season of squid (Illex argentinus) on the part of the jigger shipmasters.

According to Jorge Frias, general secretary of the Association, before "the corporate unwillingness in the negotiations, the union confirmed their freedom of action and will apply the corresponding direct measures," Ambito informed.

It was expected that wage increases were discussed during the meeting.

The union proposed its affiliates not to cast off lines until a meeting with fisheries managers is carried out and there is some progress in the dialogue, Pescare reported.

"It is two years we don’t renew the agreement. So far we have had conversations, but we were unable to get anything written on paper," said Frias.

Meanwhile, CAPA representatives argued that the Ministry of Labour had not notified them "in good time".

"We have been talking for a year. Now everything gets out of hands by the early start of the season, but we hope that we will come to an agreement," said the agency spokesman, Guillermo de los Santos.

Meanwhile, the Ministry ordered the book record for 30 days. When the terms expire, the Government will reconvene the parties.

However, the parties are expected to seal a deal before that time.

The Illex squid fishing starts today, 14 days ahead of schedule, because the Federal Fisheries Council (CFP) decided to anticipate the season start.

Related article:

- Areas for squid capture authorized

By Analia Murias
editorial@fis.com
www.fis.com

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