Štrajk PENEN: Fast Ferries i Golden Star Ferries u Rafini u petak

Ships remained docked in the port of Rafina today due to a 24-hour strike declared by maritime workers. This action has caused significant disruptions to ferry services operating from the port, affecting multiple islands in the Aegean Sea. The strike was announced despite being deemed illegal by the Single Judge Court of Piraeus.

The affected ferry companies, Fast Ferries and Golden Star Ferries, have decided not to operate their scheduled routes on this day. Specifically, Fast Ferries has canceled two round-trip routes between Rafina, Andros, Tinos, and Mykonos. Additionally, the route of the Aikaterini P. from Rafina to Paros, Naxos, Mykonos, and Tinos and back has also been canceled. Golden Star Ferries has similarly canceled several routes, including the Superferry service from Rafina to Tinos, Mykonos, Naxos, and Paros and back. Morning and evening departures of the Andros King have been canceled, as well as the Golden Princess route to Tinos, Mykonos, Paros, Ios, and Santorini and back. The afternoon departure of the Andros Queen from Rafina to Andros, Tinos, and Mykonos and back has also been canceled.

Passengers are advised to contact local travel agencies and customer service centers for information regarding ticket changes or replacements. These cancellations have created logistical challenges for travelers planning to visit these islands, particularly during peak tourist season.

The strike was initiated by the Panhellenic Union of Merchant Mariners (PENEN), which organized the protest alongside other maritime unions, including PEMEN, which represents crews and marine engineers. PENEN and PEMEN have criticized the legal challenge brought against the strike by the Union of Cruise Ship Owners, viewing it as an effort to "criminalize their fight." They remain committed to defending the right to strike, emphasizing that the action is about protecting workers' rights rather than engaging in broader corporate disputes.

Earlier today, a meeting took place between PENEN's president, Antonis Dalakogiorgos, and Mario Eliopoulos, the head of SeaJets, concerning labor issues related to the crews serving routes from Rafina. During the meeting, PENEN presented its demands and highlighted the concerns of the seafarers working aboard these vessels. However, the meeting did not result in a resolution, as both parties failed to reach a consensus. PENEN reiterated its stance, stating that it would not accept proposals to delay or reschedule the planned strike, maintaining its position on the right to strike.

SeaJets has yet to make a public statement regarding the content of the meeting or the positions expressed during the discussion. Meanwhile, the legal matter involving the injunction requested by the Union of Cruise Ship Owners is set to be addressed by the court on Thursday. The outcome of this legal proceeding could influence whether the strike proceeds as planned or faces further obstacles.

The situation highlights ongoing tensions between maritime unions and ferry operators over labor conditions and rights. As the strike continues, the impact on regional transportation and tourism remains uncertain. Passengers are urged to stay informed and consider alternative travel plans if necessary. The developments surrounding this strike underscore the complex interplay between labor rights, operational logistics, and legal frameworks within the maritime industry.