The proposal for mandatory union membership for low-income workers, social dialogue, as well as the need for a demographic strategy for the coming years, were on the agenda of a meeting with the Prime Minister as part of the Government’s consultation with constituted bodies in preparation for the 2025 Budget.

During the meeting held at the UHM Voice of the Workers headquarters in Floriana, CEO Josef Vella clarified that with the proposal for mandatory membership for low-income workers, they would still be able to change their union whenever they wish, and if their union ceases to operate, it would have no bearing on their job security.  He stated that this proposal would provide protection to workers at the highest risk of exploitation, while also strengthening social dialogue and improving working conditions through collective bargaining.

He also pointed out that if a worker benefits from better conditions negotiated by a union through a collective agreement, it would only be fair for them to join a union of their choice or contribute the equivalent to a special fund.

The UHM CEO called for a study on population and demographic changes to determine what needs to be done to improve the quality of life and address certain issues that are hindering young people from starting a career in Malta or starting a family.

On his part, Prime Minister Robert Abela said it was a positive step that the country has begun discussions on the proposal for mandatory trade union membership and emphasized that despite the challenges, the country was still creating opportunities for young people. He also spoke about the work done in recent months to protect the rights of foreign workers through new regulations on temping agencies.