The General Workers’ Union (GWU) has signed a new Sectoral Agreement aimed at recognizing the economists within the Public Service as a professional category. This agreement builds upon the existing Public Sector Collective Agreement.
Kendrick Bondin, Secretary of the Government, Public Entities, and Health Section, emphasized that the new agreement adjusts the structure and benefits for economists to reflect their professional status more accurately.
“We have elevated the importance of this profession, allowing individuals entering this field to thrive. Additionally, based on academic qualifications and work experience, these professionals can progress and receive benefits commensurate with their economic responsibilities,” stated Bondin.
Paul Zahra, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Finance, highlighted the significance of this Sectoral Agreement in recognizing the essential role economists play not only within the Public Service but also in the country.
“Economists working with the Government are making direct contributions, especially now that Malta is a member of the European Union. This membership broadens their impact compared to those working as economists in the private sector,” Zahra explained.
He added that this agreement is a crucial step toward ensuring that economists in the Public Service receive recognition comparable to that of other professions. The aim is to ensure that their working conditions and compensation packages compete with those in the private sector.
“This is a beneficial agreement for economists in both the Ministry of Finance and the Public Service. The Government is prioritizing this group of workers with a financial package designed to achieve this objective,” concluded the Permanent Secretary.
Attendees at the signing included GWU Secretary General Josef Bugeja, Deputy Secretary General Kevin Camilleri, President Jason Deguara, Maria Mifsud, and Stephanie Vella Magro, who represent members of the economists class, along with Joyce Cassar, Permanent Secretary (People & Standards), Kevin Vella, Director General – Economic Policy, and Kurt Balzan O’Dea, Director of Corporate Services.
