Council celebrates Merchant Navy Day
East Ayrshire Council hoisted the Red Ensign, or ‘Red Duster’, to mark Merchant Navy Day and raise awareness of the UK’s ongoing dependence on Merchant Navy seafarers. The 'Blue Duster' was also raised in honour of the Royal Fleet Auxiliary.
The Council was supporting a nationwide call from the Seafarers UK charity for the UK Merchant Navy’s official flag to be flown on public buildings and landmark flagstaffs.
As an ‘island nation’ the UK relies on Merchant Navy seafarers who are responsible for shipping over 95% of the UK’s trade, but many people, particularly the younger generation, know little about ships and seafarers and fail to appreciate the vital contribution they make to our way of life.
Provost Jim Todd said: “We were pleased to support Merchant Navy Day as it provides an opportunity to celebrate and honour all those who serve or have served as merchant seafarers.
“Their bravery kept supply lines open during two World Wars and more recently, they played a crucial role in maintaining the supply chain during the COVID-19 pandemic. Today, modern-day merchant seafarers are indispensable as they handle the majority of the UK's imports, therefore it’s important that we recognise their work both now and in the future.
"We also recognised the Royal Fleet Auxiliary, a Merchant Navy organisation of civilian-crewed ships which provide vital logistic and operational support to the Royal Navy and Royal Marines."
For further information, visit www.merchantnavyfund.org