THE WELFARE COMMITTEE OF THE PORT OF VIGO, A NOMINEE FOR THE IAPH SUSTAINABILITY AWARDS
Aug 21, 2023, 3:00:00 PM
- Promoting inclusion and well-being for maritime workers
- The Port Authority once again vies for the coveted Port Oscars in the 'Community Building' category alongside Stella Maris.
- The promoters of the Port Welfare Committee aim to extend this initiative worldwide through the FAO's Blue Fishing Ports project.
The Port of
Vigo has been preselected for the Port Oscars granted by the International
Association of Ports (IAPH), winners to be announced at the World Ports
Conference in Abu Dhabi from October 31 to November 2.
Having
previously won this prestigious award twice, in 2020 and 2022, for its
underwater gardens and Living Ports projects, led by Carlos Botana Lagarón, the
institution will now enter its Port Welfare Committee alongside Stella Maris in
the 'Community Building' category. A meeting place fostering fluid dialogue and
solutions for the numerous challenges faced by maritime workers.
This
initiative aims to coordinate public and private entities in Vigo's maritime
and port sector to emphasize the human factor, ensure proper welfare services
for sailors, address potential human and social issues, and foster
collaboration to confront challenges during sailors' port stays.
In recent
months, the Port of Vigo and Stella Maris have led various actions promoting
inclusion and well-being among maritime workers, ranging from training in best
port practices - in collaboration with the FAO - to port assistance, emotional
support, legal guidance, and recreational activities.
A
Beacon to Follow
The Port
Welfare Committee of Vigo, a project led by the Port Authority and Stella
Maris, involving various entities, stands as a benchmark in Galicia and the
Atlantic and Cantabrian coasts. Its replicability and scalability make it a
model for other international ports.
With an aim
to enhance inclusion and diversity, the Vigo Port Authority and Stella Maris
aspire to create similar committees worldwide, fostering an environment of
respect, cooperation, and innovation in the maritime sphere through the FAO's
Blue Ports network.
Humanization
and Inclusion
The Port
Welfare Committee aligns with the Blue Growth strategy led by the Vigo Port
Authority since 2016, underlining its steadfast commitment to humanization and
inclusion. The Port of Vigo, a vital regional and international maritime hub,
renowned for its economic significance and capacity to welcome thousands
annually, not only drives the economy but also enriches the city's
multicultural fabric. It's imperative to not only promote competitiveness and
sustainability but also cultivate an inclusive environment that embraces
diversity, equal opportunities, and social cohesion among those connected to
the sea.
