Alternattiva Demokratika – The Green Party has said that it endorsed the measures proposed by Malta Employers Association to reduce the negative impact of the international economic recession, which is affecting companies in various sectors of the Maltese economy, particularly in manufacturing and tourism.

Michael Briguglio, spokesperson for Social and Economic Development, said, “We agree with MEA that there should be an immediate reduction of electricity rates to households and businesses to reflect current international oil prices and boost people’s disposable income. We believe that wasteful practices, not normal consumption, should be penalised. We also agree that workers on a four-day week should be compensated for their sacrifice which is being carried out in a spirit of solidarity following the innovative effort of the General Workers’ Union in this regard.”

“AD also believes in the importance of training schemes which increase employability of workers and in welfare schemes which make work pay. Like MEA, we also believe that infrastructural projects can help kick-start the economy, provided that such projects are ecologically, socially and economically sustainable.”

“State funds should also be made available to help employers provide more favourable family friendly measures to facilitate matters for families in their work-life balance.”

Michael Briguglio added that the global economic crisis can bring about innovative opportunities in the ecological sector, which will create many employment opportunities.

“Green jobs can be created in various sectors such as alternative energy, transport and waste management, to the benefit of workers at various levels, whilst bringing about economic, environmental and social returns. This is an area which can benefit companies of various sizes as well as co-operatives.”

Prof Arnold Cassola, AD Chairperson said that co-operation amongst organisations representing economic, social and environmental interests should be encouraged.

“This week, the European Social Platform, the European Environmental Bureau and the European Trade Union Confedaration have joined forces with the aim of creating sustainable opportunities for workers in the EU. This type of practice should be encouraged in Malta.”

“AD strongly appeals to trade unions to put aside their differences and work together with each other and other organisations,” added Arnold Cassola.

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