Beyond broader economic factors, enhancing living conditions aboard fishing fleets emerges as a pivotal lever to bridge the generation gap within the industry. In the fleets associated with Galicia, a large share of mariners approach retirement age, with most still active workers edging toward their 50s. Conversely, a younger cohort of graduates often gravitates away from traditional maritime roles, seeking work onshore or in other off- or nearshore activities. The sector is responding by launching new vessel projects and pursuing reforms, guided by international standards set forth by the International Labour Organization (ILO), affiliated with the United Nations. These guidelines were crystallized at the fourth meeting of the Special Tripartite Committee of the Maritime Labour Convention, established in 2006. Among the approved changes is a provision allowing shipowners to supply meals and beverages to crews at no cost while on board, and to ensure access to ships for essential needs such as internet connectivity. This marks a shift toward more humane, worker-centric policies aimed at sustaining maritime labor in the modern era. (ILO, 2006)
Industry managers, unions, and corporate players participate in this committee, and the measures are slated for formal adoption at the International Labour Conference scheduled for June. A central aspect of the recommendations concerns food provisions: given the substantial number of seafarers aboard, combined with diverse religious and cultural dietary requirements and the length and nature of voyages, the supply of food and drinking water should meet adequate quantities, provide nutritional value, maintain high quality, and offer variety without cost for the duration of the contract. These terms reflect a growing consensus about dignity and sustainability in maritime work, though initial language in the original statement did not obligate free meals. In practice, fleets such as Gran Sol have seen sailors contribute a share for meals, though at moderate rates. However, reports indicate that some seafarers have faced deductions for meals on certain vessels, highlighting ongoing tensions between economic realities and welfare commitments. The responsible planning and outfitting of catering services aim to guarantee meals that are sufficient, varied, balanced, and nutritious, prepared and served under strict hygienic conditions. (ILO, 2006)
A related provision of the Maritime Labour Convention addresses social facilities and services. It requires that seafarers have access to internet at reasonable prices while docked at their home port or anchorages, to the extent practicable. In addition, the convention specifies that crew members needing immediate medical attention should be allowed to disembark promptly to obtain onshore medical care with appropriate treatment options. An urgent medical situation encompasses severe injury or illness, health risks that could threaten other crew members, broken bones, uncontrolled bleeding, or a risk of suicide, underscoring the need for swift access to robust healthcare facilities. These elements together form a comprehensive framework for safeguarding health, well-being, and dignity at sea, while supporting crew retention and operational safety across maritime markets. (ILO, 2006)