Maritime pilot dispute continues as North Sea backlog grows

The disruption caused by maritime pilots in Belgium entered its eighth consecutive day on Tuesday, with almost 30 ships waiting at anchor in the North Sea and around 10 more delayed in ports, according to the Maritime Services and Coast Agency (MDK).

The delays stem from some pilots taking their maximum legally permitted rest periods in protest at plans for a private pilotage service that could operate alongside the existing public system.

Trade unions have encouraged pilots to take their full rest entitlement, citing concerns over the proposed private service. The Professional Association of Pilots (BVL) has also pointed to a long-term staffing shortage, saying more pilots are leaving the profession than joining it.

Maritime pilot strike continues amid row over private service

Industrial action by maritime pilots continued on Friday, disrupting Belgian waterways for a fourth consecutive day. Just over 30 ships are...

belganewsagency.eu

The BVL insists that pilots taking their legal rest periods does not constitute collective strike action. The organisation was responding to criticism from Flemish Mobility and Ports Minister Annick De Ridder.

The dispute between pilots and the Flemish government over pensions, employment status and the future of pilotage services shows little sign of ending. It is the third major wave of industrial action in just over six months, and pilots say a resolution before the summer recess remains unlikely.

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