GWU signs new Collective Agreement for employees of the Superintendence of Cultural Heritage

20 Oct 2026 - Agreements | Events | Government, Public Entities and Health | Home | News | Sections

Substantial improvements in salaries and working conditions, greater flexibility and new opportunities for professional development

The General Workers’ Union (GWU), through its Government, Public Entities and Health Section, has signed a new Collective Agreement for employees of the Superintendence of Cultural Heritage (SCH), covering the period 2026–2031.

Building on the achievements of the previous agreement, the new Collective Agreement will deliver substantial improvements to employees’ financial packages, while introducing greater flexibility in working arrangements, enhanced career progression opportunities and increased support for training and professional development.

The Secretary of the GWU Government, Public Entities and Health Section, Kendrick Bondin, expressed his satisfaction with the conclusion of the agreement, emphasising that the Union’s objective was to secure tangible improvements in employees’ working conditions while ensuring appropriate recognition of their professionalism and responsibilities.

Bondin explained that, beyond the financial improvements, the agreement places significant emphasis on work-life balance, while providing greater support for employees wishing to pursue further studies, strengthen their professional qualifications and advance in their careers.

“This agreement goes beyond financial improvements and also focuses on employees’ quality of life. For us, it is important that workers benefit from conditions that allow them to spend more time with their families, while being given the opportunities and support they need to continue developing professionally and progressing in their careers,” Bondin stated.

The Minister for Culture, Lands and Local Government, Malcolm Paul Agius Galea, who was present for the signing of the agreement, highlighted the important role played by employees of the Superintendence in preserving and safeguarding Malta’s cultural heritage.

He acknowledged the significant responsibilities associated with their work and described the Collective Agreement as a positive outcome achieved also thanks to the efforts of the GWU. The Minister also reiterated his commitment to further strengthening the work carried out within the sector and bringing it closer to the public.

For his part, the Superintendent of Cultural Heritage, Kurt Farrugia, explained that the agreement introduces a new salary and grading structure, improved allowances linked to job responsibilities and academic qualifications, as well as greater flexibility in working arrangements.

He added that the agreement strengthens opportunities for training and professional development, while recognising the importance of performance, specialisation and employees’ contribution to the protection and promotion of Malta’s cultural heritage.

The agreement was signed on behalf of the GWU by Section Secretary Kendrick Bondin and Shop Steward Luca Andrea Tufigno. Representing the Superintendence of Cultural Heritage were Superintendent Kurt Farrugia and Elizabeth Vassallo, Chief Office Support Services.

Also present at the signing were GWU President Jason Deguara, Assistant Secretary of the Government, Public Entities and Health Section Lawrence Bugeja, Mario Grixti, Deputy Director of the Industrial Relations Unit, and Dr Joyce Cassar, Permanent Secretary within the Office of the Prime Minister (People and Standards).

The GWU reiterates its commitment to continuing to negotiate Collective Agreements that not only improve salaries and working conditions but also recognise employees’ professionalism, strengthen their development opportunities and promote a better balance between work and personal life.

Through social dialogue and collective bargaining, the GWU remains committed to securing tangible improvements in the quality of life of the workers it represents.