Stena Bulk: crew are the unsung heroes of the Covid-19 crisis

Mr Hånell said, “I am delighted that Stena Bulk has joined other industry leaders in a worldwide call to action to end the crew change crisis caused by Covid-19, by becoming a signatory of the Neptune Declaration on Seafarer Wellbeing and Crew Change.”

“Since the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic, hundreds of thousands of seafarers worldwide have been working aboard ships beyond the expiry of their initial contracts with no prospect of relief. This dramatic situation, which has led to such long periods at sea, is having significant consequences on the physical and mental wellbeing of seafarers. As one of the world’s leading tanker shipping companies, we acknowledge our responsibility to ensure the crew change crisis is resolved as soon as possible.

He added, “At Stena Bulk our highest priority is to protect the health and safety of our crew and shoreside employees. We show nothing but appreciation to all our colleagues on board. These are the unsung heroes of the Covid-19 crisis, supplying the world in the most difficult of times.”

“We understand that crew wellbeing and crew change are crucial topics for the shipping community to discuss and address. As such, the Neptune Declaration is fully aligned with our priorities and values and is a natural initiative for us to be involved in.”

Mr Hånell believes the Neptune Declaration is a significant step for the industry. He said, “We have always supported the idea that shipping needs to embrace more partnership and collaboration to tackle the industry’s biggest challenges.”

“We believe the Neptune Declaration is a much-needed initiative that will allow us to join forces with other industry leaders, partners and friends to facilitate crew changes and keep global supply chains functioning.”

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