Serious allegations regarding the situation aboard the ferry “Nissos Kalymnos” operated by A.N.E. Kalymnos have emerged through statements issued by the Panhellenic Seamen’s Union (PENEN) and a formal protest letter addressed to the company’s management and the Municipality of Kalymnos.
According to the documents, the vessel’s crew has reportedly remained unpaid for at least three and a half months, while unacceptable living conditions on board are also being denounced. PENEN states that the ship has been out of service since January 24 and has been docked at the Drapetsona Ship Repair Zone since mid-February, with repair works and reactivation still incomplete.
The union describes severe deficiencies on board, including a lack of food supplies, inadequate accommodation facilities, the absence of air conditioning, and living conditions that “do not meet even basic standards of human dignity.” At the same time, it notes that the only payment made to the crew was the Easter bonus, while salaries, retroactive payments, and overtime compensation remain unpaid.
Meanwhile, Ioannis Galouzis, leader of the major opposition group in the Municipal Council of Kalymnos, sent a letter to the Mayor, the Board of Directors of ANEK, and the company’s General Assembly, referring to the sailors’ situation as “labor hostage-taking.” He calls for the immediate payment of all outstanding wages, decent living conditions, and a clear timetable ensuring regular payroll in the future.
The same letter also proposes the formation of a cross-party committee, accompanied by an independent technical advisor, to visit Piraeus and assess both the condition of the crew and the company’s vessels.
The issue has sparked strong concern within the local community, as the “Nissos Kalymnos” is considered a vital transportation link for the islands of the region, while workers accuse the company management and competent authorities of abandonment and indifference.
