Updated | FOR.U.M, GWU 'condemn senseless attack' against MCESD administration

Trade union confederation FOR.U.M condemned a “baseless attack by the Union Haddiema Maghqudin” against the administration of the Malta Council for Economic and Social Development (MCESD).

In a statement, FOR.U.M said the UHM wanted MCESD to discuss a policy of mobile banning at the Home Affairs Ministry during meetings.

A few days ago, the UHM requested an urgent meeting of the MCESD to discuss “lack of respect” shown towards UHM secretary general Josef Vella when he was asked to surrender his mobile phone. Vella cancelled the meeting in refusal to leave his mobile behind.

Forum said the social partners within the MCESD discussed the UHM’s request and agreed that “an isolated incident” shouldn’t be discussed in a dedicated MCESD meeting.

“This was decided by the social partners and not by the MCESD chairman,” it said, adding that the MCESD’s role is to discuss social and economic policy.

“Such puerile attitude and attacking the MCESD administration simply to gain political points, doesn’t do UHM any favours.”

The General Workers Union joined FOR.U.M in their criticism of the UHM's stance.

"The General Workers Unions expresses its confidence in the present administration of the Malta Council for Economic and Social Development. This in view of the arrogant statement issued by the UHM in which it attacked the MCESD administration following its failure to reach its political motives.

"The UHM adopted such an improper and condemnable attitude soon after the social partners within MCESD did not reach a consensus to discuss an isolated incident involving the same UHM and the Minister for Interior."

The GWU added: "Even so, the UHM's allegation that the Government has a policy regarding mobile phones does not exist and therefore there was no reason for the subject to be raised and discussed by the MCESD. Moreover, the claim made by UHM does not fall within the remit of MCESD. In view of this the GWU reaffirms its support and confidence in the MCESD administration."