The representatives of the nationwide union of merchant marine engineers (PEMEN) have reported that up to 70% of maritime workers in passenger shipping have not been paid in 5 to 6 months. Maritime workers who have not been paid in months decided to take action and proceeded to block the ports of Piraeus, Rafina and Lavrio.
The workers gathered at the port of Piraeus early on to disallow the departure of flying dolphins with destinations around the Argosaronic Gulf, as well as the ship for Aegina. The passengers planning to travel were, as expected, taken by surprise and demanded to know if and when they were going to travel.
Tension eased, first departures
At around 9am two flying dolphins were allowed to depart when the ship-owning company provided documentation proving that they staff had been paid up until February.
Union representatives claimed that they will seek out further confirmation from ship-owners regarding outstanding payment. Those planning to travel by boat should contact port authorities to confirm any delays or cancellations.
