MEPs have a role to play in the consultation process at national level to be in a better position to promote the interests of Maltese social partners in Europe.

This was one of the main messages of a special meeting of the Malta Council for Economic and Social Development (MCESD) with MEP candidates. The meeting was organised by the European Parliament Information Office as it was kicking off an awareness-raising set of activities revolving around the theme “Working for better Employment.” Developments concerning free movement of workers, maternity leave, and female participation in the labour market were amongst the points discussed.

Opening the proceedings, Helena Dalli, Minister for Social Dialogue, Consumer Affairs and Civil Liberties, praised the initiative, which she described as an “educational exercise” for the candidates and social partners alike. She called for similar meetings to be held regularly even after the European elections. The Minister said it is the government’s intention to strengthen social dialogue.

“The involvement of MEP candidates in this forum helps putting certain issues such as development and economic and social growth on the European agenda,” said the Minister. She also invited social partners to take the opportunity and listen to the candidates, who were in direct contact with the citizens. “Ultimately, the underlying aim of this dialogue is to improve the quality of life of Maltese citizens,” the Minister concluded.

The meeting was chaired by MCESD Chairman John Bencini. “This was a very positive meeting. Social partners expressed various suggestions on European themes that have an impact on Malta,” Bencini commented after the meeting. “Once the new MEPs are elected, this kind of dialogue should be maintained so that we remain active debating issues rather than simply react to what is happening in the European Parliament.”

The risk of a one-size-fits-all approach in the European legislative process was pointed out by a number speakers. Others remarked that Malta’s size should not always be seen as a hindrance.

The meeting was organised by the European Parliament Information Office as part of its information campaign leading to the European elections on the 24th May.

The participants included MEP Roberta Metsola and MEP candidates Miriam Dalli, Ivan Grixti, Alfred Sant, and Deborah Schembri, for the Labour Party, and Ray Bugeja, Stefano Mallia, Jonathan Shaw, and Norman Vella for the Nationalist Party.

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