There's a new foundation in New Bedford with a mission to fight for greater safety in the commercial fishing industry.

The Seaworthy Foundation honors the memory of fishermen Michael Roberts and Jonathan Saraiva. Both were lost at sea in December 2017 when the fishing vessel they were working on, the Misty Blue, capsized.

Family members, including Michael's widow Tammy and Jonathan's father Phil, have joined with attorney Michael Flynn in vowing to make something positive happen out of sadness and tragedy.

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Flynn spoke this week on Townsquare Sunday, saying the foundation seeks to improve every aspect of vessel safety, and will be sharing vital information with elected officials, regulatory agencies, vessel owners and their insurers.

Flynn has represented firms in the railroad industry, an industry that is highly regulated, especially when it comes to safety. He said based on what he's seen in both the railroad and fishing industries, a safety culture in the fishing industry does not exist.

Flynn wants to see mandated safety equipment standards, periodic inspections of safety equipment and vessels, including stability testing, and workplace safety training.

The Seaworthy Foundation has already made contributions to three organizations: Fishing Partnership Support Services, the Shaw Fund for Mariner's Children, and the Seamen's Bethel. Flynn's interview can be heard here:

Townsquare Sunday is a weekly public affairs program that airs every Sunday morning on 1420 WBSM. The program highlights individuals and organizations working to make the SouthCoast a better place to live and work.

If you would like your organization featured on Townsquare Sunday, please email the program's host at jim.phillips@townsquaremedia.com.

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