GWU expects new Labour government to reverse public holiday ban

Labour has expectedly roped in the support of its traditional ally, the General Workers Union, at least to go by a declaration from secretary-general Tony Zarb that "for Malta to have a secure future, we need a Malta that is for all," he said, borrowing the party's electoral slogan.

"Labour will not be making any promises it won't keep," Labour leader Joseph Muscat reiterated to the General Workers Union's national council today.

Muscat told the union that his party was ready to work with all employers and unions, and said that he looked forward to cultivate this spirit.

Muscat said the PL's flagship proposal to reduce tariffs was also a proposal in favour of a better quality of life, adding that Labour was committed to fight the incidence of precarious work.

A new Labour government will also offer surplus workers absorbed by the Industrial Projects and Services (IPSL) a collective agreement, after their salary had been frozen for a number of years.

A second commitment, Muscat added, was to give members of disciplined corps the right to join the union of their choice, but without a right to strike. "This will definitely lead to a new chapter in this history if industrial relations in Malta," he said.

GWU deputy secretary-general Michael Parnis said that the GWU was looking forward to scrutinise the programmes of both parties to see which of their proposals have been included.

On his part, GWU secretary-general Tony Zarb said he hoped that PL would continue to embrace proposals put forward by the GWU. "We have fought hard against increased utility bills and the PL has embraced our proposals with regards on LGBT rights, family-friendly measures, energy and on health. We hope to see more of our suggestions being taken on board."

Zarb said the GWU was ready to work with everyone, as long as there was a reciprocal commitment to work with the union. "For two years we have talked about the injustices this union has suffered under this government and not once was this denied by the government."

Zarb said his union expected that a new Labour government reverses the abolition of leave-days in lieu during public holidays that fall on weekends. "We appeal to politicians to be honest, because those who take people for a ride cannot expect to govern. I tell families and workers not to trust the leadership of this country in the hands of those who took them for a ride."