Gozo – The General Workers’ Union (GWU) has strongly condemned what it described as a disparaging and unfair statement made in Parliament by an Opposition MP regarding government employees in Gozo.
In a press release, the GWU expressed its disappointment over the MP’s claim that
some public sector workers in Gozo leave their workplace by 10 a.m., and even went
as far as asking the Prime Minister whether an investigation would be launched into
the matter.
As the principal representative of workers in Malta and Gozo, including those in the
public service, the GWU stated it could not accept such a sweeping generalisation.
The union emphasized that it is unacceptable for a member of Parliament—an
elected representative in the country’s highest institution—to tarnish the reputation of
all Gozitan public workers as if they were collectively neglecting their duties.
The GWU highlighted that unions across the country can attest to the dedication and
hard work of Gozitan public employees, including teachers, nurses, and other
government service providers. These workers, the union said, carry out their duties
with the same level of commitment as their counterparts across Malta.
The union also recalled its pride in having been part of the signing of a historic
collective agreement last year, which significantly improved the working conditions of
public service employees in both Malta and Gozo. The agreement involved an
investment of €1.27 billion over six years.
The GWU concluded by urging the Opposition to show maturity and issue a formal
apology to the Gozitan workers and their families. It reassured its members that it
remains steadfast in defending their rights and interests.
