The death of former UHM President Gaetano Tanti, aged 66, has left a huge void both at trade union level and in the wider context of industrial relations and social dialogue. The tributes which followed are testament to this loss.

Hailed as a “gentle giant” he was there in the most important years of trade unionism in Malta.

“He was like our second father,” UHM CEO Josef Vella remarked in his first reaction. “We lost a father in trade unionism. Whatever we’ve learnt, we owe it to him. He was very disciplined. He had a to-do list in the morning and spent the day crossing things out. We were very lucky to have had him as our mentor in trade unionism. I’ve known him since the 1990s when I was still shop steward at my workplace, then working closer to him since 2006 when I took on the full-time job at the union,” Vella said.

Gejtu (as he was affectionately known) who served as union president for 13 years was not just a leader. He was a mentor, a friend, and a symbol of hope for workers everywhere. His ability to navigate complex negotiations and advocate workers’ rights, was second to none. He had an innate talent for finding a solution, even in the most delicate situation and fostering unity. His attention for detail, planning and implementation stood out and made him a sort of technocrat.

His closest collaborator in trade unionism – another Gejtu albeit Vella – who served alongside Tanti as general secretary was also full of praise. It was the period  when UHM led by the tandem of the ‘Gejtijiet’, fought tooth and nail in favour of EU accession after having survived  an existential threat posed by a court dispute with the Freeport a few years before.

The General Workers’ Union, UHM’s traditional ‘rival’ was also full of praise for Gejtu Tanti. General secretary Josef Bugeja described him as his “idol” in the trade union field.

“He was such a gentleman, approachable and a good listener. He was a giant in trade unionism, and I only have words of praise for him,” Bugeja remarked.

Tanti was also active in the Confederation of Maltese Trade Unions of which UHM is  member. CMTU President William Portelli described Tanti as a loyal, persuasive, sensitive  person who was nonetheless focused and determined to reached his goals.

The loss of the former UHM President was also felt on the other side of the industrial relations spectrum.  Malta Employers Association director general Joe Farrugia said this was a tremendous loss to our society.

“He could be forceful in his arguments, but always came across as fair and objective, gaining the respect of all social partners at the Malta Council for Economic and Social Development and the Employment Relations Board.”

At political level Opposition leader Bernard Grech also paid tribute to Tanti, describing him as “the definition of a trade unionist who embraced the Maltese worker and worked with a European vision”.

As we reflect on the life and contributions of Gejtu Tanti we remember not only a trade union leader but a true champion of the people and the voice of reason. His legacy on trade unionism, social dialogue and industrial relations as a whole is immeasurable.

Voice of the Workers Weekly extends its deepest condolences to his family and loved ones during this difficult time. May his legacy live on in the hearts of all those who were touched by his incredible journey and enduring spirit.