GWU concerned about tariffs rises

The General Workers' Union (GWU) yesterday expressed its concern over the increase of tariffs on a number of services, some of which, it said, were deemed essential.

In a statement, the GWU, which did not specify which services it was referring to, said these increases would seriously affect workers and their families by decreasing their purchasing power and put their standard of living under unnecessary pressure.

GWU general secretary Tony Zarb wrote to Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi to express concern, and insisted that if this continued, the union would not have any other option but to take steps to protect purchasing power.

The GWU also pointed out that the announced tariff increases were not indicated to the social partners in any meetings with the government.