PM Abela Pledges More Worker-Friendly Measures Following General Workers’ Union Consultations

During a pre-Budget 2026 consultation meeting with the General Workers’ Union (GWU) at the Auberge de Castille, Prime Minister Robert Abela reaffirmed his Government’s commitment to prioritising dialogue with social partners, stressing that open discussion is key to strengthening workers’ rights and conditions.

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The Prime Minister highlighted that on Monday, 27 October, Malta will once again see a budget free of tax increases, with continued energy subsidies for both businesses and families. “We have done a great deal, and I promise that we will continue to do even more to improve work-life balance. This legislature has introduced unprecedented measures in favour of workers,” Dr Abela said.

Among the initiatives introduced, he mentioned parental leave, including ten days for the second parent, extended to self-employed individuals, and five days of carers’ leave, three of which are fully paid for public sector employees. He also cited the increase of urgent family leave from 15 hours to four working days and the upcoming miscarriage leave legislation, which will grant couples seven days of fully paid leave funded by the Government. Ongoing consultations are also taking place regarding special leave for parents whose babies are admitted to the Neonatal Paediatric Intensive Care Unit (NPICU).

Addressing the situation concerning Carlo Gavazzi, the Prime Minister acknowledged the GWU’s efforts in securing adequate financial packages for affected workers, emphasising that Malta’s labour market remains strong and dynamic. He expressed confidence that, given their skills, these workers will be successfully reintegrated into the workforce.

Dr Abela further underscored that the Government’s strong and constructive relationship with social partners has led to positive initiatives benefiting both Maltese and Gozitan citizens. Highlighting Malta’s economic growth in recent years, he noted the country now outperforms many other European member states, as reflected in rising employment and historically low unemployment rates.

Thanks to robust economic performance, the Government has been able to provide favourable financial packages while improving working conditions through collective agreements, including those covering disciplined forces. Dr Abela also commended the unions’ efforts and expressed gratitude for their ongoing commitment to advancing workers’ interests.

Attending the meeting were Ministers Michael Falzon, Byron Camilleri, Clyde Caruana and Clifton Grima; Parliamentary Secretaries Andy Ellul and Malcolm Paul Agius Galea; Members of Parliament Naomi Cachia and Ray Abela; and Mark Mallia, Head of Secretariat at the Office of the Prime Minister.

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