During another consultation meeting, this time, with representatives of the General Workers’ Union (GWU) at the Auberge de Castille, Prime Minister Robert Abela emphasised that this Government remains committed to prioritising dialogue, as it is through open discussion that workers’ conditions and rights are strengthened.
The Prime Minister remarked that on Monday, 27 October, our country will once again see a budget without tax increases, while energy subsidies will continue to be maintained both for businesses and families. “We have done a lot, and I promise you that we will continue to do even more to improve work-life balance. This legislature has seen the introduction of unprecedented measures in favour of workers. We have introduced parental leave, including 10 days parental leave for the second parent, which was then extended to those who are self-employed. We have introduced five days of carers’ leave, three of which are on full pay for public sector employees,” the Prime Minister said.
He also referred to other important initiatives, including the increase of urgent family leave from 15 hours to four working days. Furthermore, under the upcoming miscarriage leave legislation, couples will be entitled to seven days of fully paid leave funded by the Government. The Prime Minister also referred to the ongoing consultation on special leave for parents whose babies are admitted to the NPICU.
The Prime Minister also addressed the situation concerning Carlo Gavazzi, acknowledging the GWU’s role in securing an adequate financial package for the affected workers. He emphasised that Malta’s labour market remains strong and dynamic, and expressed confidence that, given their skills, these workers will be successfully re-absorbed into the workforce.
Dr Abela added that the strong and constructive relationship the Government has consistently maintained with social partners has translated into positive measures and initiatives for the benefit of the Maltese and Gozitan people.
The Prime Minister highlighted how, in recent years, Malta has succeeded in building an ever-stronger economy, one that now outperforms that of other European member states. This is reflected also in the continued growth in employment and the historically low unemployment rates. He added that, thanks to a robust economic performance, the Government has been able to provide the most favourable financial packages while simultaneously improving working conditions, including through the conclusion of several collective agreements, such as those for the disciplined forces. In this context, the Prime Minister commended the work carried out by unions and expressed gratitude for their ongoing commitment to advancing the interests of workers.
Present for the meeting were Ministers Michael Falzon, Byron Camilleri, Clyde Caruana and Clifton Grima, Parliamentary Secretaries Andy Ellul and Malcolm Paul Agius Galea, Members of Parliament Naomi Cachia and Ray Abela, and the Head of Secretariat at the Office of the Prime Minister Mark Mallia.
Photo: OPM/DOI
