All men – and women – on deck!

Norway is a great power on the sea. The reason for this is first and foremost our elongated coast and large marine areas. But the most important resource is, and has always been, access to good labor.

The need for qualified labor is increasing rapidly, and today many companies are struggling with recruitment. There are several reasons for that. The world is changing, and the industry is going through a large -scale restructuring that is both green and digital. The need for new or changed competence is, in other words, great.

In order to meet this need for expertise, we must recruit more wise heads from the entire workforce. We must attract those who want to go out and travel, and those who are ready for heavy lifting, but also those who want to contribute the development of the industry through the screen – both women and men, regardless of background – and make sure everyone feels welcome and valued.

Both the fishing industry and the maritime industry are still male -dominated industries. Especially at sea, major challenges are related to working conditions, attitudes and harassment. Some of these challenges we can solve relatively quickly, such as facilitating the workplace better for women in terms of both the right equipment and other facilities. Other things, such as attitudes and an established culture, we know it takes longer to change.

The government is concerned with diversity and equality. We work on several teams to ensure that more industries become attractive jobs for both women and men.

In the fishing industry, several initiatives have been initiated, and things are starting to move. Today, there are more women in the fishing industry than just a few years ago. It is uplifting.

One of the most important things we have in place is a cooperation agreement with organizations in the industry to combat sexual harassment and better equality. Specifically, we work to strengthen the expertise in this area – both with managers and union representatives, and to improve the notification routines in the industry. At the same time, it is important that women are recruited in all stages of the industry – including boards, advice and committees – so that women can help develop the fishing industry in the right direction.

Also in the maritime industry, development moves in a positive direction. This week we signed a cooperation agreement with employee and employer organizations in the industry. It contains very specific measures for recruitment and role models, a working environment for all, a working life free of harassment, and a customized workplace, and is clear on what obligations both the authorities and the organizations have to achieve this.

Now it is important that we continue this important cooperation. Both to continue to pay attention to this and to learn from each other.

Diversity and equality are crucial for several reasons. It creates a better working environment – which goes without saying – and is a prerequisite for increased safety. In addition, it is absolutely necessary to succeed in the technology conversion. Sustainable solutions will help Norwegian business at sea to remain world -leading. We still have a way to go, but to reach the goal, all men – and women – must on the deck!

Good March 8!

Minister of Fisheries and Sea

Marianne Sivertsen Næs (Ap)