Working Conditions Aboard the Grand-Ferry

In a significant development for maritime transport in the Arabian Gulf, Iranian ferry operator Karaneh Lines is set to inaugurate a revolutionary ro-pax service in 2019. This new service will connect three key destinations: Kuwait, Qatar, and Oman. The ferry service will utilize the CORSE, a 1983-built vessel previously owned by SNCM, marking a historic moment in the region's shipping industry. As the first ro-pax service in the Arabian Gulf, this initiative is expected to enhance travel and freight options for passengers and businesses alike.

On November 4, 2023, French ferry operator SNCM, which links France to Corsica, announced a halt on payments to creditors and plans to apply for court protection shortly. This development, disclosed in a statement late on Monday, highlights the ongoing financial difficulties faced by the company. Majority-owned by Transdev, a public transport entity linked to Veolia and the French state bank CDC, SNCM has been grappling with the repercussions of a significant debt, including repayment of 440 million euros ($550 million) in illegal state aid mandated by the European Union competition regulators. The implementation of court protection is poised to signify the decline of the unprofitable ferry operator. Discussions are underway regarding the potential acquisition of some of SNCM's vessels by rival shipping firms, as well as the transfer of part of its workforce of 1,900 employees to ensure the continuation of vital services on key Marseille-Corsica routes. Despite the tumultuous situation, unions representing SNCM's employees, who have staunchly opposed the push for court protection for months, stated that they currently have no immediate intentions to strike.

The ferry 'Corsica' remains docked at the Marseille port, unable to set sail for Toulon. Originally scheduled to launch a new service between Bastia and Ajaccio on January 27, the vessel's departure was impeded by a strike initiated by the CGT on January 20. Despite a ruling from the high court of Marseille on January 25 declaring the strike illegal and mandating the CGT to lift its call to action, the 'Corsica' has yet to resume operations. Only nine sailors are effectively blocking the ferry's movement, which has stalled the important launch of the new route connecting Toulon, Bastia, and Ajaccio. This new service proposed by SNCM offers three round trips per week to Corsica, with two designated for Bastia and one for Ajaccio. In response to the situation, management has begun disciplinary proceedings against some of the striking crew members. For more details, view the French report and photo: http://www.meretmarine.com/article.cfm?id=118608.