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In its previous comments, the Committee referred to section 271 of the Labour Code under which "a worker who abandons the ship without due cause during a voyage shall forfeit any unpaid wages to which he is entitled, without prejudice to any other legal liabilities." The Committee notes the approval of a series of amendments to the Labour Code on 12 August 1995 by Act No. 44, although the above section was not amended.

The Committee subsequently noted the Bill on work at sea and navigable waterways, which contained a provision establishing that a seaman's contract may be terminated subject to prior notice of two weeks. The Committee notes that it is the Government's intention to revise the Maritime Labour Bill, with the collaboration of a national tripartite commission, which should be established in the near future. The Committee hopes that the Government will supply information on the progress made in the adoption of the above text.

The Committee once again requests the Government to take the necessary measures to ensure that persons engaged in maritime work may terminate the employment relationship if they give reasonable notice.