HES International signs Memorandum of Agreement with the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF)

Rotterdam, November 28 2023

The ITF-affiliated union, FNV Havens, alongside trade union representatives within HES, Works Councils of Dutch terminals within HES, and HES management, are collaboratively working to establish and uphold minimum socially acceptable employment conditions for crew members of ships docking at HES terminals.

Cees van Gent, CEO of HES, emphasized the significance of this collaborative initiative, stating, "At HES, we are committed to ensuring that every ship calling at our terminals adheres to socially acceptable employment conditions. This partnership with ITF and FNV Havens underscores our dedication to respecting and upholding the rights of crew members."

Jacqueline Smith, ITF Maritime Coordinator, echoed this sentiment, saying, "Collaboration is key to fostering positive change in the maritime industry. This initiative with HES and FNV Havens is a testament to our joint commitment to establish minimum working standards and ensure the welfare of crew members."

The parties involved have formalized their cooperation with a specific objective in mind: to include a clause in the agreements for storage and/or transshipment with HES customers. This clause stipulates that every ship calling at a Dutch HES terminal should be covered by either an ITF Collective Bargaining Agreement or an ITF-approved Collective Bargaining Agreement.

This collaborative effort marks a significant step towards ensuring fair and respectful treatment for crew members in the maritime sector and establishes a framework for socially responsible practices at HES terminals.