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General Workers’ Union and the Maltese Scenario. Mr. Charles Agius National Secretary Metal & Construction Section. Malta. Smallest state in the European Union Malta got its independence in 1964 Became a republic in 1974 It is one of the most densely populated countries in the world
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General Workers’ Union and the Maltese Scenario Mr. Charles Agius National Secretary Metal & Construction Section
Malta • Smallest state in the European Union • Malta got its independence in 1964 • Became a republic in 1974 • It is one of the most densely populated countries in the world • According to the 2005 Census the population is of 404,039
Economic Situation • Inflation rate (2006) is 3.1% • Minimum wage (2006) is of Lm57.90 (€136) per week • Malta’s economy is based on tourism, manufacturing and services (e.g. financial services) • Current government is aiming for Malta to become a base for the technology industry
Workforce • 325,243 are estimated to be over 15 years • 50.6% inactive • Low female participation rate of only 32.3% • Unemployed 12,561 or 7.8%
Unions • 2 major unions • GWU is the biggest one • Represents the interests of 55% of the total organised work force • 67-70% of the total labour force is unionised
Construction Sector • 10,548 workers in the construction sector • Not many of these are unionised • Low working conditions • Most of them work illegally • Employ many foreigners • GWU still tries to organise these workers