UĦM's proposals unite all party leaders

The leaders of the four political parties yesterday sat around the same table to listen to the electoral proposals of the Union Ħaddiema Magħqudin.

In a rare event, Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi, Labour leader Alfred Sant, Alternattiva Demokratika chairman Harry Vassallo and Azzjoni Nazzjonali deputy head Anġlu Xuereb sat close to each other, flanked by their party representatives, with their hands clasped on the table in front of them.

As the UĦM's general secretary Gejtu Vella read out the union's electoral proposals, he stressed that, no matter which party was elected to government, the union's priority was the interest of those it represents.

Its proposals include the strengthening of regulatory structures so they would work efficiently without government interference and the setting up of an authority with the unions' participation to ensure that consumers are provided with information in an efficient manner.

The union expects parties to declare a gradual cut in income tax and take concrete action on climate change.

In the health sector, the time had come to give particular attention to primary and preventive health care and provide the Occupational Health and Safety Authority with more funds and personnel.

The Auditor Generals' Office ought to be shown more respect so that it could gain credibility and the appointments of chairmen and directors ought to be based on competence.

The law regulating the Malta Broadcasting Authority ought to be revised according to the needs of a pluralistic society and PBS should reflect all society's opinions.

A review of the Employment and Industrial Relations Act was required to ensure it covered today's realities.

The party leaders then shared their views about the proposals.

Mr Xuereb, the first to speak, agreed that flexi-time ought to be introduced.

Dr Vassallo said the UĦM's proposals reflected a modern democracy but he was disappointed that they were merely visions and had not yet been implemented.

Next, Dr Sant said he was glad to see that the UĦM proposals echoed Labour's vision as outlined in its Plan For A New Beginning, which was based on good governance, a new economic policy and a social policy aimed at improving quality of life.

Dr Gonzi said he was pleased to say that his party had already seriously considered many of the outlined proposals and steps had already been taken to implement some, such reducing tax.