AD voices concern over low employment rate

Alternattiva Demokratika expressed its concern that once again, Malta has the lowest employment rate within the European Union. AD urged the Government to give priority to this issue in the forthcoming budget.

Spokesperson for Social and Economic Development Michael Briguglio said:”There are various reasons why Malta has a low employment rate, including a lack of good job opportunities. Related to this is the difference between the minimum wage and certain social benefits is so small that it in the short run it does not pay to enter the formal labour market. Due to this, many workers, also including early school levers, are employed in informal or undeclared work with precarious conditions. For this reason, Government should seriously consider an increase in wages, and in the minimum wage in particular, in order that it would be worthwhile to enter formal employment.”

Michael Briguglio also expressed his concern that Malta has the lowest employment rate, of 28.3% amongst workers aged 55-64.

“Maltese sociological research has shown that ageing workers are prone to pessimism and feel disadvantaged in finding employment. Government is definitely not setting an example by introducing early retirement schemes instead of investing in the skills and experiences of such workers. The Shipyards issue is a case in point.”

Michael Briguglio also emphasised the need for policies which make it easier for workers to balance their employment and family responsibilities as well as leisure time. Besides, existing legislation, such as that which grants rights to part-time workers, should be enforced.

AD spokersperson for Social Protection Mary Anne Zammit commented on Malta’s female employment rate (36.9%), which, once again, is the lowest in the EU.

“The lack of female participation is due to various reasons including familiar commitments, whereby Malta lacks affordable child care centres and flexible hours at the workers’ choice. Government should ensure a working environment which facilitates the integration of more women in the economy. Encouragement of rights such as parental leave could help give better results in keeping women in employment irrespective of their career or choice of work.”

Mary Anne Zammit also commented on the fact that many women are not benefitting from their parental rights such as parental leave as this is not being granted by certain employers.

AD Chairperson Prof Arnold Cassola, urged the Governement to give priority to the employment issue in the forthcoming budget. “The State has a duty to ensure more equality. Having a higher employment rate is an important factor in this regard. AD urges the Government to do its utmost to ensure that work pays, thus making it more attractive for people to enter the world of work whilst ensuring that existing workers are treated with dignity. Therefore, workers’ rights should be ensured so as to reduce exploitation.”