The General Workers’ Union (GWU) has officially presented its proposals for the 2026 Budget to the Nationalist Party, emphasizing a vision for a more equitable and inclusive Malta. During a meeting between the GWU’s central administration and Opposition Leader Alex Borg, accompanied by MPs Adrian Delia, Ivan Castillo, and Jerome Caruana Cilia, the union unveiled a comprehensive document outlining its recommendations.
A Holistic Vision for Malta 2050
GWU Secretary General Josef Bugeja stated that while the union has put forward various proposals related to the world of work and its associated legislation, the focus of this year’s submission goes beyond employment. “Our key proposals are rooted in improving citizens’ quality of life, based on Malta’s long-term vision for 2050,” Bugeja explained.
He highlighted the rapid transformation of the labour market, noting that the greatest challenge lies in shaping its future. “We believe economic growth must be supported by enhancing workers’ skills, competencies, and abilities. Workers should be empowered to improve their skills in ways that translate into career progression,” he said.
Mental Health and Work-Life Balance
Bugeja also stressed the importance of mental health in the workplace, pointing out that many employees are experiencing mental fatigue. In response, the GWU is advocating for renewed emphasis on remote working, teleworking, and the right to disconnect. Among the proposals is a pilot project to reduce the working week to 32 hours, while maintaining pay equivalent to a 40-hour week.
Demographic Challenges and Family Support
Deputy Secretary General Kevin Camilleri addressed Malta’s demographic reality, describing it as one of the most pressing challenges to the country’s long-term social and economic sustainability. “While our elderly population is living longer, fewer children are being born,” Camilleri noted.
To tackle this issue, the GWU is proposing a comprehensive approach that includes increased incentives for young families. These include tax reductions, housing loan or rent subsidies, and extended workplace benefits. “We must also shift the mindset that has developed over time and instead emphasize the importance of family sustainability,” Camilleri concluded.
GWU Presents Budget 2026 Proposals to the Nationalist Party: “For a Fairer, More Social and Inclusive Society”
The General Workers’ Union (GWU) has officially presented its proposals for the 2026 Budget to the Nationalist Party, emphasizing a vision for a more equitable and inclusive Malta. During a meeting between the GWU’s central administration and Opposition Leader Alex Borg, accompanied by MPs Adrian Delia, Ivan Castillo, and Jerome Caruana Cilia, the union unveiled a comprehensive document outlining its recommendations.
A Holistic Vision for Malta 2050
GWU Secretary General Josef Bugeja stated that while the union has put forward various proposals related to the world of work and its associated legislation, the focus of this year’s submission goes beyond employment. “Our key proposals are rooted in improving citizens’ quality of life, based on Malta’s long-term vision for 2050,” Bugeja explained.
He highlighted the rapid transformation of the labour market, noting that the greatest challenge lies in shaping its future. “We believe economic growth must be supported by enhancing workers’ skills, competencies, and abilities. Workers should be empowered to improve their skills in ways that translate into career progression,” he said.
Mental Health and Work-Life Balance
Bugeja also stressed the importance of mental health in the workplace, pointing out that many employees are experiencing mental fatigue. In response, the GWU is advocating for renewed emphasis on remote working, teleworking, and the right to disconnect. Among the proposals is a pilot project to reduce the working week to 32 hours, while maintaining pay equivalent to a 40-hour week.
Demographic Challenges and Family Support
Deputy Secretary General Kevin Camilleri addressed Malta’s demographic reality, describing it as one of the most pressing challenges to the country’s long-term social and economic sustainability. “While our elderly population is living longer, fewer children are being born,” Camilleri noted.
To tackle this issue, the GWU is proposing a comprehensive approach that includes increased incentives for young families. These include tax reductions, housing loan or rent subsidies, and extended workplace benefits. “We must also shift the mindset that has developed over time and instead emphasize the importance of family sustainability,” Camilleri concluded.
Civic Discipline and Environmental Awareness
The GWU document also places strong emphasis on environmental quality within local communities and the need for greater civic discipline across the country. “We must cultivate a stronger sense of civic responsibility, where individuals take ownership of their behaviour to ensure a better quality of life,” the union stated.
Bugeja added that the GWU is currently working toward a landmark agreement with Motor Fleet Operators and digital platforms to ensure dignity and fair treatment for workers in this sector. “This initiative reflects our commitment to building a fairer and more socially conscious society, where citizens can live with dignity and quality,” he said.
Opposition Leader Welcomes GWU’s Broader Vision
Opposition Leader Alex Borg praised the meeting and the GWU’s proposals, describing them as positive and forward-thinking. “The labour sector is a priority for us, and we are committed to strengthening workers’ conditions and wages,” Borg said.
He expressed satisfaction that the GWU’s proposals extend beyond employment issues, addressing key national concerns such as infrastructure, the rural and urban environment, and youth development.
“The Nationalist Party’s own proposals also emphasize employment, but we believe more attention must be given to quality of life and the need for a better work-life balance,” Borg added. He acknowledged ongoing efforts to implement the EU Work-Life Balance Directive but stressed that more work remains. “Many of the challenges we face in our economy and society stem from this imbalance.
Safeguarding Malta’s Future
Borg also referred to recent PN proposals aimed at encouraging family growth, noting Malta’s alarmingly low fertility rate compared to other European and global nations. “We are deeply concerned. As a government, we must safeguard the Maltese and Gozitan identity. This is a situation that must be addressed urgently.”
He emphasized the importance of investing in Malta’s youth, many of whom are choosing to leave the country. “We must nurture and retain the talent we have, not lose it.”
Regarding Gozo, Borg agreed with the GWU’s call for improved connectivity between the islands. “We must invest in a new, greener and more efficient fleet that meets today’s European standards. This will enhance Gozo’s competitiveness and economic potential.”
