Dear Editor,
I read a very heartrending story a few days ago in your newspaper. It concerned Mr Cornelius who lost both of his legs due to an accident at sea on his employer’s trawler. It appears that the employer is hedging in the consideration of compensation for the injured man. There was apparently some talk of the trawler being leased to a captain and that Mr Cornelius should rightfully seek compensation from this man.
It is my view that Mr Cornelius can succeed in a claim against the company since the vessel belongs to them and they are obligated under the common law to ensure that the vessel is kept in good repair and that it is properly maintained. In the event that the captain to whom the boat was leased has no insurance coverage, the burden of compensation falls back on the owners. I feel strongly that Mr Cornelius should sue this firm for a hefty sum of money.
According to the report there was no one on board who could have rendered first aid and the man himself was able to instruct his colleagues as to what they should do in order to save his life. Our recent occupation and safety act has many features which are often breached by employers. It is time that all employers be made to put themselves in order where this act is concerned.
I trust that this young man is given the urgent help that he so obviously needs.
Yours faithfully,
Cyril Walker
