Mariners at two companies recently voted to join the Seafarers International Union.In San Francisco, boatmen employed by Starlight Marine Services unanimously chose the SIU. They work aboard a conventional tug and barge that is used for bunkering and lightering operations, and also aboard two ship-assist tugboats utilized for docking and tanker escort procedures.
SIU Vice President West Coast Nick Marrone said that the SIU competed with three other maritime unions during the organizing campaign.
“Everyone from the SIU who participated in the campaign did a good job,” Marrone said. “I extend a warm welcome to our newest members, and I congratulate them for choosing the SIU.”
The Starlight Marine mariners are covered by a five-year contract that stipulates wage increases, pension benefits, top medical coverage and other benefits.
Also signing on with the Seafarers are mariners at Buffalo Industrial Diving Company (BIDCO). They crew a 110-foot former survey boat which now tends diving platforms and also delivers construction material.
BIDCO’s parent company is involved in marine construction projects including underwater pipeline installation, harbor dredging, underwater repairs and much more. BIDCO assisted in some of the salvage efforts in New York following the attacks of September 11.
Crew members at BIDCO now are covered by a three-year contract that calls for wage increases each year of the agreement, plus top pension benefits and the union’s best medical plan, among other benefits.
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