GWU registers industrial dispute with Healthmark over lack of air conditioning at Mellieħa elderly home

2 Jul 2026 - Government and Public Entities | Home | News

The General Workers’ Union (GWU) has registered an industrial dispute with Healthmark after being informed, for yet another year, that the air-conditioning systems at the Mellieħa residential home for the elderly are not functioning.

This is not the first time this problem has occurred during the summer months. The repeated failures of the air conditioning systems are creating an unacceptable working environment for employees and raising serious concerns about their health and safety.

Carers and other employees working inside the residential home are being exposed to excessively high temperatures for prolonged periods, placing them at clear risk of heat-related exhaustion and other health issues associated with extreme heat. This situation is unacceptable and cannot be allowed to continue.

Although the industrial dispute is being registered against Healthmark, responsibility for the maintenance of the air conditioning systems does not fall under the company’s responsibility.

Considering these circumstances, the GWU has formally notified the Occupational Health and Safety Authority (OHSA) and requested that it investigates the matter without delay. At the same time, the Union has officially registered an industrial dispute with the Department of Industrial and Employment Relations (DIER).

Until the air conditioning systems are fully restored and a safe working environment is re-established, the GWU is instructing its members a directive that will remain in force until management takes the necessary steps to ensure safe and suitable working conditions.

The GWU reserves the right to escalate its industrial actions and issue further directives should these unsafe conditions persist or if members are pressured to perform duties that compromise their health and well-being.

The GWU expects Healthmark to take immediate action and do everything necessary with the competent authorities to ensure that this issue is resolved without further delay, thereby guaranteeing a safe environment for both employees and the residents.