Isle of Man tightens control over rights of sea crews
The Isle of Man government is tightening its control over working conditions for crew members on board Manx-registered vessels.
An agreement will be signed designed to improve living and working conditions.
It is thought the move could impact on the size of cabins on board and other contractual arrangements.
Dick Welsh, from the Isle of Man Ship Registry, said: "We are working with ship owners and unions to make sure the Isle of Man gets it right."
'Continues to grow'
He added: "This agreement will look at contracts, the amount of leave given and provision on board, it basically covers every aspect of a seafarer's life."
The Isle of Man government said it can attribute much of its success in the shipping industry to participating in discussion with both the unions and ship owners.
Minister for Economic Development Alan Bell said: "I am delighted that we have been able to sign this declaration.
"The tripartite relationship is important to the Isle of Man and as the shipping register continues to grow, it is vital that we remain focused on the rights of its seafarers."