Political will is needed to further strengthen unions and workers

The fine words we often hear must now translate into political will if we truly want to see unions move forward and secure improvements for workers and the world of work.

During a meeting with Forum Unions Maltin (For.U.M.), Opposition and Partit Nazzjonalista Leader Alex Borg said that many of the forum’s proposals reflect proposals being put forward by the Partit Nazzjonalista.

Among these, he highlighted the need for more opportunities for flexible working, lower taxes on part-time work and overtime, support schemes for workers wishing to undertake further training, and legislative changes to allow those already receiving a retirement pension to continue working, at a time when the country is experiencing a shortage of skilled workers.

Alex Borg also spoke about the importance of retaining energy subsidies, while stressing that the Government must ensure investment in renewable energy to reduce the country’s dependence on energy from third countries.

For their part, For.U.M. members discussed several of their proposals and how unions can improve their work for the benefit of workers. They also expressed concern about the difficulties they face in securing recognition as an entity.

This is because they fall under neither the classification of a trade union nor that of a non-governmental organisation. They said this is creating several difficulties that must be overcome so that For.U.M. can fulfil the purpose for which it was established.

Also present at the meeting were PN Deputy Leader and Shadow Minister for Tourism Alex Perici Calascione, Shadow Minister for Infrastructure and Employment Julian Borg, and Shadow Minister for Sustainable Mobility Ivan Castillo.

This meeting forms part of a series of pre-Budget meetings.

22.10.2026