Joseph Muscat proposes unit for social dialogue

The Labour Party will remain in constant and constructive dialogue with civil society, Labour Leader contender Joseph Muscat told non-governmental organisations yesterday.

During a meeting with representatives of around 40 NGOs, Dr Muscat explained his vision for the Labour Party if he is elected leader.

He said he wanted the party to remain in contact with these organisations in the country's best interest. Dr Muscat said that a Labour Party under his leadership would be an integral part of civil society.

He is proposing the creation of a Unit for Social Dialogue within the party, which would be the channel for ongoing communications between the party and NGOs.

These organisations would also be invited to participate in an Ideas Forum on which the party would base its policies.

Dr Muscat also promised NGOs that once in government, the party would ensure that these organisations and civil society as a whole would be given more space to express their views and form part of the decision-making process.

"The vision of the Labour Party as a basis of a progressive and moderate movement is based on open and constructive dialogue with civil society," he said.