Crew detain Greek ship in protest over pay

The crew of a Greek shipping tanker have launched industrial action in Foynes, Co Limerick, until their employer pays them wages that have been withheld for several months.

Many of the 19 crewmen, who are mainly from eastern Europe, have not been paid for more than six months and they are refusing to leave the port in Foynes until the matter is resolved.

The crew contacted SIPTU requesting urgent assistance today and Tony Ayton, Ireland’s representative in the International Transport Workers Federation, took up their case.

Mr Ayton said the exploitation of the crew members is reprehensible.

"An executive from the Greek owning company is here in negotiations and he’s brought some money, but it’s nowhere near enough," he said.

"The crew has decided this ship does not leave this port until they get all of their money."