C001: United Nations-International Maritime Organization (UN-IMO) Year of the Seafarer 2010 (carried)
Download resolution C001
Subject: UNITED NATIONS-INTERNATIONAL MARITIME ORGANIZATION (UN-IMO) YEAR OF THE SEAFARER 2010
Moved by: The Venerable Ronald Harrison
Seconded by: Mr. Glen Mitchell
Be it resolved that this General Synod:
- recognize that the United Nations and the International Maritime Organization (IMO) have declared 2010 as the Year of the Seafarer;
- commend the ministry of the Missions to Seafarers in ports throughout Canada;
- recognize that all Canadians benefit from the important work that seafarers do in our import/export economy;
- pay tribute to the world’s seafarers for their unique contribution to society and recognizes the risks they shoulder in the execution of their duties in an often hostile environment; and
- encourage all dioceses and parishes in the Anglican Church of Canada to celebrate the UN-IMO Year of the Seafarer with an appropriate liturgical or special event during the year 2010.
Source: Member of General Synod
Submitted by: Mr. Glen Mitchell, Chair, Mission to Seafarers Society, Vancouver
Does this motion contain within it any financial implications? Yes __ No x
If yes, has the General Synod Expenditures Committee considered the implications? Yes __ No __
EXPLANATORY NOTE/BACKGROUND INFORMATION
Canada is a major trading nation and each year thousands of ships visit ports from the Pacific to the Atlantic to the Arctic. Thirteen Anglican “Flying Angel Clubs” operated by Missions to Seafarers in sea ports and lake ports in Canada welcome tens of thousands of seafarers from more than 40 countries who work on ships carrying products and raw materials to and from Canada. They work in very difficult conditions that are often dangerous because of weather conditions but with increasing frequency because of the threat of piracy. Many Canadians are employed in jobs that are directly related to the maritime industry including dock workers, railway employees and many in resources, agriculture, retailing and manufacturing. When seafarers visit a Canadian Flying Angel Club, they know they will be welcomed and enjoy the warm hospitality at their home away from home, part of the world-wide network of centres in 230 ports across the globe.