Norway: Seasonal Workers Cannot Cross Borders for Next Two Weeks

Norway’s government has recently introduced new entry restrictions in order to prevent the further spread of COVID-19, but seasonal workers have not been exempted from the decision.

Seasonal workers have not been considered socially critical personnel; therefore, they have not been excluded from the new entry rules, which will be applied initially for 14 days, AtoZSerwisPlus.com reports.

The recent measures among other industries will also affect the winter fishing industry this year.

In this regard the Minister of Fisheries and Seafood, Odd Emil Ingebrigtsen said he understands the frustration of the seafood industry, adding that if something is not done about the infection situation, it can also have significant consequences for companies.

“It is important that we stand together now. Hopefully, the situation will be resolved, and we will be able to carry out the winter fishing and the high season in a good way. Now, however, the focus must be on reducing the number of imports,” Ingebrigtsen pointed out.

During the meeting held between representatives of the fishing and seafood industry, the Minister also talked about the current situation stressing that the Norwegian Labour and Welfare Administration will offer help to Norwegian workers if the production risks to stop.

“If an infection occurs in a company, you will also have to stop production. This is a scenario we do not want,” the Minister of Fisheries and Seafood added.

The meeting was held between the representatives of the Norwegian Fishermen’s Association, Seafood Norway, the Coastal Fishermen’s Association, the Seafood Companies, the Fish Buyers’ Association, Fishing Boat, the Pelagic Association, the Norwegian Seafood Council, the Norwegian Seamen’s Association, as well as other representatives.

In December, Norway’s Ministry of Justice and Public Security announced that all persons seeking to enter the country must first provide detailed information when crossing Norway’s border.

In this regard, the Minister of Fisher and Seafood had noted that the seafood industry foresees a large influx of international labour for next year’s winter fishing.