New Sectoral Agreement for the Scientific Class – A concrete investment in scientific professionals in the Public Service
The Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Animal Rights Anton Refalo together with the Parliamentary Secretary for Fisheries, Aquaculture and Animal Rights Alicia Bugeja Said presided over the signing of a sectoral agreement with UHM – Voice of the Workers, which gives formal and structured recognition to the Scientific Class in the Public Service.
This agreement is of national importance as it strengthens the role of scientists working in sectors related to public health, food safety and animal welfare. It is a clear step towards the modernisation of the scientific profession in the country and reflects the Government’s commitment to investing in people and their specialist knowledge.
The agreement strengthens the grade structure, clearly defines the requirements for promotion, and introduces new professional development mechanisms. The officers will benefit from training, formation and financial support directly linked to their scientific work.
Minister Anton Refalo stated that this agreement reflects a clear vision for a stronger future in critical sectors for the country. “This agreement represents a serious investment in the people who bear the scientific responsibility on which the security and well-being of our people depends. It is the scientists who carry out the analysis, research and technical direction on which daily decisions are built. Today we are giving them the tools, recognition and future they deserve,” while thanking the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Animal Rights, the Ministry of Health, the UHM and the Industrial Relations Unit for their professional work.
Parliamentary Secretary Alicia Bugeja Said said, “The Government continues to show how close it is to workers through another sectoral agreement. With this agreement we will be increasing the allowances for various scientists who work within our Ministry. Scientists as Scientific Officers do very important work, primarily on research. The research they carry out is crucial for our country because from the information collected and the results we obtain, we will be able to implement policies for the benefit of the sectors that fall under this Ministry.”
The agreement includes substantial improvements in the financial package: updated allowances, improved bonuses and the introduction of the Performance Bonus from this year. Officers will also receive payment according to their respective grade. All measures will apply from 1 January 2024. This agreement is proof of how cooperation and dialogue lead to a stronger and more professional future for scientific workers in the Maltese Public Service.
