New legal app for seafarers

Seafarers Rights International (SRI) has reported the launch of a new app that will aid seafarers with legal issues and information concerning their rights.

“Seafarers need tangible support 24/7,” says Deirdre Fitzpatrick, executive director of SRI.

“There are many good companies and maritime administrations who provide seafarers with assistance and support with regard to their human rights.  However where that is not the case, this app will provide a lifeline for seafarers.”

The app has been designed with offline functionality and is compatible with iPhone, iPad, Android and Blackberry devices. One key feature is the ‘Find a Lawyer’ tool, which provides access to a database of lawyers around the world that have signed up to the SRI Charter, “a statement of good practice in the provision of legal services to seafarers,” according to Ms Fitzpatrick.

“It is important that the work of SRI gets directly to seafarers,” says Brian Orrell OBE, chairman of the Advisory Board of SRI.

“This is why this practical advice is now being made available on an app, and we are also producing on-line education materials free of charge for seafarers to raise their awareness around subjects relevant to their working lives.”

“This education will ensure that seafarers’ rights are real and meaningful for them.