AD calls for progressive implementation of active market policies

Alternattiva Demokratika signed the UHM declaration for the implementation of an active market policy on Tuesday.

The Green Party said this should be incorporated with progressive policies to ensure sustainability and social justice.

AD Chairperson Michael Briguglio said: "Decent jobs and active labour market policies are important to may work pay and to increase employability."

He added that to ensure the successful implementation of such policies, AD insisted that progressive measures such as an increase in the minimum wage should be introduced, together with a true fight against precarious employment.

"Our manifesto covers these areas through its employment, economic and social policy chapters," Briguglio said.

The AD chairperson pointed out that child care services should be universally accessible and, in collaboration with the private sector, the State should provide free services to those who need them.

On the Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) and compensation, Briguglio explained that these should be carried out every six months, instead of every year, while he stressed the need for a realistic assessment of the cost of living adjustment to guarantee that the yearly compensation truly reflects the rise in inflation.

"Discrimination against persons with disability; ageing workers; immigrants; ex-prisoners and other workers should be done away with. Such socially just measures will encourage more persons to enter the labour market," Briguglio said.