Opposition leader meets with NGOs demanding minimum wage increase

Leader of the opposition Simon Busuttil has once again reiterated his support for a proposal put forward by a coalition of NGOs, for increasing in the minimum wage over a three-year period.

Following a meeting with the coalition NGOs at his office in Parliament, Busuttil praised the NGOs’ efforts and thanked them for their proposals. He said that his vision for ensuring an inclusive society, where everyone has an opportunity to succeed, is based on for main pillars.

An economy for the people, and one that seeks new industries and greater investment to improve wage levels, social justice that addresses those most in need, a better quality of life and better environmental standards and a country which is run by honest and genuine leadership.

The coalition explained that it is putting forward three main proposals that it believes to be sustainable and achievable, namely, an increase in the minimum wage, a revision of the mechanism used for determining wage increases and, eventually, an adjustment to income tax calculation

The coalition said that these measures are based on the belief that workers have a right to a decent wage.

They explained that their proposal for a 3.5% increase for three consecutive years is the result of consultations with a number of economists, adding that the proposals are based on scientific studies. The proposal is intended to see minimum wages increase over a three-year period in order to avoid shocks to businesses, they said

The coalition estimates that roughly 22,000 employees would benefit from the proposed changes, of which, more than 3,000 are employed on a full-time contract.

“With this proposal these 22,000 workers would be able to enjoy a better quality of live, not to mention the fact that there would be a beneficial effect on trade in the country,” said the coalition.