Maritime Professionals Union Returns General Secretary for Further Four Years

UK – NETHERLANDS - WORLDWIDE – Following a fairly contentious campaign members of the Nautilus International trade union have voted to re-elect Mark Dickinson as general secretary. Nautilus (formally NUMAST) represents the interests of 24,000 maritime professionals working in the related industries both ashore and at sea. Mr Dickinson retained his position despite bitter opposition from former Merchant Navy officer Gavin Williams.

During the campaign Mr Williams objected to what he called the politicising of Nautilus after attempts were apparently made to merge with a non maritime union. One of the websites used to argue the case has since been closed down and Mr Dickinson claimed 60% support with just the two candidates vying for the job. Mr Dickinson, who was first elected as general secretary when the Anglo-Dutch union was created in 2009, said he was delighted with the result and grateful to the members who had reaffirmed their trust in his leadership, adding:

“Nautilus is a democratic body, and this was the first contested general secretary election since the law was changed in 1986 requiring ballots. I have had the honour of having been elected by the membership to lead Nautilus International for a further four years. Building on the unanimous endorsement of the Council of Nautilus, and the wider membership, which gives this Union its strength and momentum, has now also given me their support.

“Nautilus is the envy of many in our industry. Nautilus is strong, independent, financially secure, and focused on agreed strategic objectives approved by the Council and the membership at General Meetings. These objectives put delivering for members at the heart of Nautilus. This must, and will, continue.

“We know that shipping is a vital industry and well trained seafarers are essential to the safe and efficient movement of world trade. Nautilus members can be assured that they have a leadership determined to fight for the recognition and reward that maritime professionals deserve, and to campaign at the highest levels for measures to protect employment and training, and to combat problems such as piracy, fatigue and criminalisation.”