After the Maltese Parliament passed a resolution in December 2024, amending the contract for the Workers’ Memorial Building, the updated agreement was officially signed in a ceremony at the very same building — the Natural Home of the Worker.
The resolution was supported by government MPs but opposed by the opposition, with the final vote held on December 16, 2024, passing with 41 votes in favor and 33 against.
The contract amendment followed a court ruling last year that confirmed GWU’s right to continue operating from the building in Valletta. After this decision, GWU requested the government to revise the contract, agreeing to pay retroactive rent while maintaining a fair and established price.
The government introduced amendments to the 1957 Act, allowing GWU to continue using the defined areas of the WMB without previous restrictions. In return, GWU will pay nearly €2 million to the state, an amount determined by an independent expert’s valuation of the property and past rental dues.
Most of the building, now legally delineated, will be used exclusively by GWU members,
providing 3,800 square meters of office space dedicated to trade union activities.
The signing ceremony was attended by Prime Minister Robert Abela and Minister for Lands and Electoral Programme Implementation, Stefan Zrinzo Azzopardi.
“For Us, the Worker Comes First” – Prime Minister Robert Abela
Prime Minister Abela described the occasion as a celebration of workers, emphasizing that the agreement reflects the government’s commitment to workers’ rights and collective bargaining.
“We hope for continued progress so GWU can keep shaping a brighter future for all Maltese and Gozitan workers,” he concluded.
“A Success We Achieved Together” – Josef Bugeja, GWU Secretary General
GWU Secretary General Josef Bugeja highlighted the historic significance of the day, calling it a collective achievement for the union and the workers’ movement.
“This occasion is not just a formal event but a testament to our collective resilience, unity, and unwavering dedication to every worker in our country,” Bugeja stated, emphasizing that the Workers’ Memorial Building is a symbol of their lasting commitment to workers’ welfare.
Bugeja acknowledged that evolving needs required expanding the union’s capacity, and this amendment allows GWU to enhance its services, offer stronger support to members, and invest in initiatives promoting workers’ rights and progress.
He expressed gratitude to the Prime Minister, government ministers, GWU officials, legal teams, auditors, and the Land Authority for their support and professionalism throughout the process.
“This change isn’t just a legal amendment — it secures the future of GWU and this iconic workers’ monument,” Bugeja declared. “Today, we’ve made that future a reality.”
“The GWU has always been at the forefront of workers’ rights” – Minister Stefan Zrinzo
Azzopardi Minister Zrinzo Azzopardi emphasized the importance of strengthening trade union efforts in Malta, praising the Land Authority’s role in finding a fair solution.
“Since its inception, GWU has been a leading force in defending workers’ rights, playing a crucial role in Malta’s social progress,” he said. “Signing this contract reaffirms the
government’s stance that GWU should continue its work from the Workers’ Memorial
Building, with the resources needed to strengthen the country’s trade union movement.”
This pivotal agreement not only solidifies GWU’s presence in Valletta but also reinforces the union’s ability to champion workers’ rights for generations to come.
