The Dutch Court of Appeal decided to ask the European Union Court of Justice for guidance on a legal issue involving the Non-Seafarers’ Work Clause (NSWC), reads an ITF release. ITF to defend seafarers’ work clauseThe International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) and its affiliated unions strongly support the Non-Seafarers’ Work Clause (NSWC), viewing it as a vital outcome of collective bargaining between unions and employers. This protects seafarers from injury and fatigue, particularly at the end of long voyages when rest is most needed. “We remain steadfast in defending the NSWC, because seafarers’ safety and rest hours are non-negotiable. Therefore, the ITF will continue to campaign strongly and continuously on an agreed clause negotiated with the employers that is central and fundamental to the health safety and protection of both the seafarers and dockers involved,” said Paddy Crumlin, President, ITF.