Updated 1040
Migration policy to target firms with high turnover of foreigners
Prime Minister Robert Abela announced a new Labour Migration Policy aimed at curbing exploitative practices and ensuring worker dignity. The policy, discussed in a cabinet meeting, includes sanctions for employers with high turnover rates of foreign workers who hire and fire in quick succession. Public consultations will shape this initiative, part of broader efforts to regulate the labour market and balance economic growth with worker welfare. Abela highlighted recent reforms targeting temping agencies and couriers as examples of tightening labour standards. On migration, he emphasised prevention at the source and called for updated EU laws. He praised Italy’s Albania-based asylum system but noted Malta’s focus remains on successful return policies for ineligible asylum seekers.
Balancing foreign labour and local employment protects Maltese workers from job competition – GWU
The GWU acknowledged the economic necessity of labour migration to address Malta’s skill shortages and demographic challenges but stressed the need for responsible management to avoid wage suppression or unfair job competition. It supports policies ensuring equal treatment, fair wages, and safe working conditions for both local and foreign workers. The GWU advocates for collective bargaining, stricter oversight of recruitment practices, and training programs to enhance workforce skills. Collaboration with the government and social partners aims to align migration policies with worker protections. Safeguards are vital to balance economic growth, protect Maltese job security, and ensure foreign workers have decent employment, fostering a harmonious, productive labour market.
Morning Briefing
PL registers budget poll bounce, but still trails PN – survey
The Labour Party has experienced an improvement in its poll rating after the budget, but the PN remains slightly ahead, according to the latest Maltatoday survey. The difference between parties is just 2,600, well within the margin of error. The PN enjoys the support of 46.3% of the electorate against Labour’s 45.3%, a one-point lead over the PL on a projected turnout of 70.6%. The survey also shows that a significant 8% of voters are opting for third parties, split equally between ADPD and other political formations. Despite the advantage for the PN, Robert Abela remains the most trusted of the main political leaders, leading Bernard Grech by 18 points. (Maltatoday)
PM claims he terminated Amanda Muscat’s contract before Standards Commissioner’s report
Prime Minister Robert Abela insisted that he had already terminated Amanda Muscat’s contract three years ago, prior to the release of the Public Life Standards Commissioner’s report. Abela emphasized that this decision was made independently of any findings by the Commissioner. Speaking to The Times of Malta, the PM noted that those implicated would now be subject to the scrutiny of the parliamentary committee on standards in public life but stressed that their actions do not warrant dismissal from their current roles. Abela defended Muscat’s employment, asserting that her job was legitimate, and she fulfilled her working hours. However, he acknowledged that the Commissioner’s report raised concerns regarding her salary. This situation, he suggested, highlights a possible need to update the government’s recruitment guidelines, which, although not violated, currently lack clear criteria for appointing consultants. (TVM)
Opposition leader cautions PM not to underestimate public outrage on Ministers’ job controversy
PN leader Bernard Grech cautioned Prime Minister Robert Abela not to underestimate public outrage over the Clayton Bartolo job controversy. Speaking on NET TV, Grech criticised Abela’s attempts to downplay the issue, stating that these efforts would ultimately prove ineffective. Despite the findings, Abela has dismissed calls to remove the ministers from their posts. The PN has called for a protest this evening in front of the Parliament building with Grech saying a strong participation would send a clear message to Ministers Clint Camilleri and Clayton Bartolo that they cannot continue to “take advantage” of the public. (Times of Malta)
