GWU determined 'to make an impact'

The General Workers' Union will be holding a public protest march in Valletta on January 27, the first in a series of outdoor manifestations against the "alarming" number of redundancies.

Speaking during a news conference following a national council meeting, GWU general secretary Tony Zarb said his union was determined to make an impact.

He said he expected the union to be criticised for taking to the streets but underlined that such manifestations were its democratic right and they served to raise awareness.

"We've been through enough traumas, let's hope no more are created. We want the government to create work opportunities," he said.

The protest march starts at 5.30 p.m. from Castile Place, in Valletta. "We are calling on all those that believe they have a right to work, to join us."

All trade unions and organisations are also being invited to the manifestation.

Mr Zarb said it was disappointing to note that while Opposition Leader Alfred Sant had accepted to meet the GWU administration to discuss the job losses, the prime minister had so far failed to set a date.