GWU and Deputy Prime Minister discuss shared vision for Malta’s healthcare sector

5 Aug 2026 - Government and Public Entities | Home | News | Politics | Professionals, Finance and Services | Sections

Various challenges affecting Malta’s healthcare sector, particularly those impacting workers within this essential service, were discussed during a meeting between the General Workers’ Union (GWU) and Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Health, Ian Borg. The meeting also focused on the need to continue strengthening healthcare services through investment in workers and ongoing social dialogue between the Government and the social partners.

GWU Secretary General Kevin Camilleri said the meeting provided an opportunity to discuss a number of important issues relating to the sector, including services delivered by employees engaged through contractors.

“The GWU will continue working to strengthen workers’ conditions while collaborating with the relevant Ministries to achieve the best possible outcomes for our members and for society. We are speaking about a highly sensitive sector where, while safeguarding workers’ wellbeing, we must never lose sight of the wellbeing of the Maltese and Gozitan people,” said Camilleri.

Deputy Prime Minister Ian Borg said it was a pleasure to meet with the GWU leadership and representatives from its various sections. He highlighted the important role the Union plays within the healthcare and active ageing sectors.

“It is essential that we listen to the voice of workers through their representatives. I have heard genuine concerns and proposals presented on behalf of the workers they represent,” Dr Borg said.

Dr Borg welcomed the issues raised by the GWU, noting that some of the identified challenges could be addressed immediately, while others require long-term planning and investment. He reaffirmed that both the Government and the Ministry remain committed to listening, engaging in dialogue and working together with the social partners to identify solutions that are in the best interests of both workers and patients.

“The objective of every union, regardless of which one it is, and that of the Government is the same: to ensure that patients receive the highest standard of healthcare while guaranteeing full respect for the workers who deliver these essential services every day. We must continue to strengthen and invest in them,” Dr Borg said.

Both sides expressed their commitment to maintaining this constructive dialogue in the months and years ahead.

Representing the GWU at the meeting were Deputy Secretary General Kevin Abela, President Jason Deguara, Government, Public Entities and Health Section Secretary Kendrick Bondin, Professionals, Finance and Services Section Secretary Riccarda Darmanin, Assistant Secretary within the Government, Public Entities and Health Section Lawrence Bugeja, and GWU Representative for Gozo Jonathan J. Vella.

Also present was Renzo Degabriele, Permanent Secretary within the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister and the Ministry for Health.