Government, GWU hold first meeting on dockyard privatisation

Delegations from the government and the GWU this afternoon had a two-hour meeting during which they discussed the government's plans to privatise Malta Shipyards, and the government's offer of voluntary early retirement schemes.

Few details were given after the meeting but both sides confirmed that further meetings will be held.

Finance Minister Tonio Fenech described the meeting as cordial and said that the priority of both sides was to ensure the best conditions for the workers and the country.

GWU general secretary Tony Zarb said the positions of both sides had been discussed, and there were grounds for further talks.

The government has said it is offering early retirement schemes in order to reduce the workforce at Malta Shipyards, making it more attractive for investors. Malta Shipyards employs 1,700.