Survivors of the Leader L tragedy who spent time on the Island after the sinking have paid tribute to those that helped them.

The ten Filipinos and two Indian crewmen, who have now left Bermuda for home, have thanked the authorities and members of the community for their assistance during their stay.

The message of appreciation comes as sources close to the group have revealed that the survivors are unhappy after they accepted compensation deals from the shipping company.

It is understood each man received around $12,000, plus any outstanding salary, after the traumatic sinking and rescue from the bulk carrier, 400 miles off Bermuda, two weeks ago.

Eighteen men died in the sinking. Six bodies were recovered but the remainder of the crew are believed to have gone down with the 776-foot salt-carrying vessel.

The crewmen had the option of not accepting the settlement and pursuing their case with an International Transport Federation (ITF) lawyer but they were concerned that any future agreement might not reach them in their home countries.

A Romanian, who was also brought to Bermuda by Canadian Navy rescuers, has decided to continue his case.

He is also one of the three plaintiffs named in a legal action against the shipping company, Leoninus, and operators, Cavo d'oro.

The Bermuda Industrial Union, which is the local affiliate of the ITF, negotiated the compensation on behalf of the men.

BIU President Derrick Burgess said: "The union was able to negotiate settlements for those that wanted it.

"Even though we were reluctant to sign off any rights they had in the future of suing the company, we had to be mindful of the political problems down there, and the instructions the workers gave us -- we had to go by their instructions.'' In a letter to The Royal Gazette , the survivors thanked their Canadian rescuers, the Salvation Army, the Filipino community, Government and the BIU for their help during their ten-day stay on the Island.

They said: "We reiterate our sincerest gratitude and hope that some day we can reciprocate the same effort to anybody who may be in a similar situation.'' HEALTH HTH