Pre-Budget Document 2007

The National Council of Women considers a number of proposals put forward in Pre-Budget Document 2007 as positive. The document identifies key national issues addressed in the Pre-Budget Document 'A Better Quality of Life' and builds on Budget 2006. Its consistency and adaptability to current socio-economic needs and global challenges are key elements underlying a sustainable budget.

NCW notes that the Pre-Budget Document 2007 again reflects the need for a culture change in which stakeholders including civil society, whose potential so far had not been adequately tapped, can participate actively in the consultation process and reach agreement for the good of our country.

This latest document, as in Budget 2006 has moved away from the 'paternalistic' practice of past budgets, so all are called on to contribute to its implementation with responsibility in a collective effort to strengthen the country's economy.

NCW welcomes proposals to address the low female participation rate in the labour market and incentives to declare the cost of wages to spouses in family business. NCW is also pleased to note a positive approach in addressing the undeclared work that involves employers and employees, as well as individuals, both men and women.

The proposed incentives should encourage individuals to participate in the regular labour market, which will entitle them to social security and protection benefits, including adequate pensions.

NCW is currently studying the document, in particular areas of concern, such as measures maximising the number of women with individual entitlements to pensions, further implementation of family- friendly measures and facilitating access to childcare facilities, youth unemployment, the impact of population aging and strategies to use better older people's skills and knowledge, energy supply and demand and Malta's euro change-over, among others.

NCW believes that adopting strategies to promote economic growth through social development will lead to improve our competitiveness, as has been experienced in northern European countries.