An anniversary of free trade unionism

The month of June brings back memories of the fighting spirit of thousands of Maltese workers and other true Maltese for upholding the banner of free trade unionism and democracy in our country.

It was 28 years ago this month that trade unions affiliated to the Confederation of Malta Trade Unions (CMTU) had a serious industrial dispute with the then Socialist government of Dom Mintoff.

A total of 141 Telemalta employees were suspended for weeks for following industrial action ordered by the Union Haddiema Maghqudin in protest against the lack of consultation by the government regarding the introduction of punch clocks.

Hundreds of bank employees were locked out after taking industrial action ordered by the Malta Union of Bank Employees in sympathy with suspended Telemalta workers. Also, hundreds of nurses were transferred after following industrial action, also in sympathy with Telemalta employees. It was also with a sorrowful heart that we free trade unionists saw the annexation of the GWU by the Malta Labour Party.

But ably led by the late and beloved Salvino Spiteri and Maurice Agius, then president and secretary general of UHM respectively, the free workers did what was needed in that moment of truth.

Today's workers must not forget the past history of free and independent trade unions in Malta. The workers who cherish democratic values are duty bound to strengthen independent trade unionism.