GWU takes industrial actions at Dar Emmaus following management’s refusal to engage in dialogue

17 Aug 2026 - Government and Public Entities | Home | News | Sections

The Government, Public Entities and Health Section within the General Workers’ Union (GWU) is announcing industrial action at Dar Emmaus in Gozo as from Monday, 10 August, after management, through its legal representative, categorically refused to meet GWU representatives at a conciliation meeting with the Department for Industrial and Employment Relations (DIER).

The GWU, as the recognised union representing the employees concerned at Dar Emmaus, insisted on dialogue with the aim of addressing urgent issues directly affecting its members. Despite this, in official correspondence sent on behalf of Fondazzjoni Kenn u Tama, the GWU was informed that the Foundation “is not interested in attending any meeting” with Union representatives.

The GWU considers this position to be serious and unacceptable and contrary to the spirit of industrial relations based on dialogue, mutual respect and effective workers’ representation.

In light of this attitude, the GWU informed management that it had been left with no alternative but to proceed with industrial action. A recognised union cannot be ignored. Recognition must be reflected in meaningful and responsible dialogue, where workers’ voices are heard and the issues affecting them are properly discussed.

The GWU remains ready to resolve this situation through dialogue, but this can only happen if there is a genuine willingness on the part of management to engage in discussions with the Union representing the employees.

Should there be no meaningful progress, the GWU reserves the right to escalate its directives without delay and take all necessary steps to safeguard the rights and interests of its members.

The GWU’s priority remains clear: to protect workers’ rights and promote fair industrial relations built on respect.