Michael Briguglio, AD Chairperson said: “By opposing a freeze in the minimum wage, FOR.U.M. has shown what autonomous trade unionism is all about. AD is the only party contesting the general election which is calling for an increase in the minimum wage. This is not only a question of social justice, but can be beneficial to the economy due to workers’ increased spending power. We remain shocked that Labour has now allied itself with the PN and big business in opposing such a basic policy for social justice”.

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Excerpts from FOR.U.M.’s statement (as reported in timesofmalta.com):

“Whereas FOR.U.M. agrees with the general up-skilling of workers, increased employment and a reduction in the Water and Electricity tariffs, this would definitely not solve the inevitable.

“Malta would still have workers on the minimum wage and the present €158 Euros weekly only means a rougher time for these workers. It is also pertinent to point out that in Malta there are skilled or semi- skilled workers paid on the minimum wage,” FOR.U.M said.

… “FOR.U.M. disagrees with those who state that an increase in the minimum wage could result in job losses. We have already and repeatedly heard this same argument being brought forward by these same sources in connection with the Cost of Living Adjustment and every time workers are given an increase in their salaries following a Collective Agreement.”