The Malta Chamber of Commerce and Enterprise does not consider the General Workers' Union's actions as conducive to the generation of investment and employment opportunities that Malta needs.

Union leaders must understand that entrepreneurs do not owe Malta a living and, in a globalised scenario, are free to relocate as, when and where they deem appropriate, the chamber said.

The chamber, which was airing its concern over the GWU's directives to workers - planned to come into effect today, said it was also perturbed by the union's threat of escalating industrial action.

"This is yet another case where the private sector is innocently being held to ransom. The situation is largely detrimental to the nation as a whole because businesses that provide the life-blood to the country's economic growth are being victimised.

"This despite the fact that the GWU knows full well that Malta's general economic and competitive position is far from ideal. The pending industrial action can only compromise this position further," it said.

The chamber looked forward to constructive dialogue between all social partners with a view to rectify the issues at stake to the benefit of workers, employers and the nation at large.

It said it firmly believes that dialogue and discussion are the most appropriate instruments to ensure healthy industrial relations, a sustainable welfare state and resilient economic prospects for Malta.