The seafarers’ union (PENEN) has declared a fresh 24-hour strike, following a new assembly held by its members at the port of Patras. The strike began at 6:00 a.m. Friday and will run through 6:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 21.

The union has also issued a warning of escalating industrial action across the entire ferry sector in Greece if shipowners and the government fail to adequately address their demands.

The sailors’ core demands include:
• The right to two off-ship rest days per month
• Equal pay aligned with the collective labor agreement for coastal shipping
• Reinstatement of ship staffing levels based on Presidential Decree 177/74
• Legal recognition of express ferry routes
• Doubling of garage duty pay

According to PNO, the decision to intensify their stance was solidified during a strike assembly held earlier today at the Patras port, following a strong show of support from seafarers and solidarity groups.
The union emphasized that both its leadership and rank-and-file members unanimously agreed to continue the strike, after thoroughly reviewing the current situation and engaging in open discussion during the assembly.

It was also clarified that any provisions regarding safety personnel during the strike will be fully in line with maritime labor regulations.