The APB joins the ICS initiative for 1st May and will sound the horns of the Portopí and Botafoc lighthouses

The APB joins the ICS initiative for 1st May and will sound the horns of the Portopí and Botafoc lighthouses

Palma

29/04/2020

The Port Authority of the Balearic Islands (APB) has joined the initiative promoted by the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) and has pledged to sound the horns of the Portopí lighthouse in the Port of Palma and the Botafoc lighthouse in the Port of Ibiza on 1st May in recognition of the work of the shipping industry and seafarers.

The ICS communications department is encouraging captains from all over the world to sound the sirens of ships that are berthed in port (as long as it is safe to do so) on 1st May at 12 noon local time to celebrate Labour Day. The APB has sent this invitation to the shipping companies and facilities that operate in the public ports of Palma, Alcudia, Mahon, Ibiza and La Savina, and has agreed to sound the Portopí and Botafoc horns for five minutes.

In many countries around the world, 1st May is recognised as International Workers' Day. This is a day that is used to celebrate and recognise the contribution of workers around the world and at this very difficult time globally, as a result of Covid-19, the ICS would like to draw attention to the contribution of seafarers to our society through this global initiative.

Other public-sector (State-owned Ports Body) and private-sector (ANAVE) shipping industry organisations have been informing port authorities, members and shipping industry facilities about this initiative. According to the ICS, there are more than 1.2 million seafarers currently working to ensure that food, fuel and supplies continue to be delivered worldwide.