“Budget 2015 includes a variety of measures to strengthen the economy, but it lacks a progressive and social vision,” stated Zminijietna – Voice of the Left.

“Though Zminijietna agrees with various measures to assist low income families and to increase the rate of employment, Zminijietna does not support measures that stigmatise all persons who rely on social benefits.”

“Government failed to introduce progressive policies, such as an increase in the minimum wage.”

“Also,” Zminijietna insisted that the “one-off bonus for workers earning less than €20,000 should also be given in full to those workers who solely depend on a part-time job. NSO statistics show that the majority of part-time workers are women.”

“Measures to address precariousness, such as the elimination of the community work scheme is positive.” Zminijietna added that it “welcomes the fact these workers will be employed on a 40hr week with the minimum wage”.

“With regards to the environment, progressive measures to promote green economy are missing, such as the creation of green jobs, investment in renewable energy and more public open spaces.”

Zminijietna said that “Government should hold back from privatising community health centres, as this could lead to a fee charge for using the service.”

Zminijietna noted that the budget is weak in progressive taxation. Measures, such as the the lowering of the income tax rate for the well-off threatens the sustainability of the welfare state. “This could also create a situation were social and educational benefits are reduced.”

“On the other hand,” Zminijietna concluded, it “welcomes measures that benefit persons with disabilities, the widening of maternity leave, and an increase in social benefits for those on low income.”

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