UĦM proposing consumption threshold for utilities surcharge

The Union Ħaddiema Magħqudin (UĦM) is proposing that the utilities surcharge be applicable only to households that go beyond a certain consumption threshold.

Outlining the UĦM's 2009 budget proposals yesterday, UĦM secretary general Gejtu Vella said the document was formed around three principles: The creation of jobs and productive work opportunities, education and instruction, and social justice which addresses the needs of the individual.

"We must keep in mind trends and developments in economies that are much larger than ours," Mr Vella said.

Employment figures were satisfactory, especially as other EU member states were not doing as well as Malta. He expressed his hope that the current employment trends would continue, saying however, that this would be possible if measures were undertaken to ensure that the negative international scenario does not impact too badly on Malta.

The union said it expected roads to be up to EU standards, public transport to be modernised and rendered efficient, and fiscal incentives to be provided to encourage investment in alternative energy sources, both on a domestic and industrial level.

Regarding tourism, the UĦM said the government must ensure that tourists are given value for money and that price abuse is eliminated.

The government must also ensure, Mr Vella said, that the country is kept clean and that sites of cultural or national importance are maintained through adequate funding.

Referring to the health sector, Mr Vella said the UĦM is proposing that the government should pay greater attention to primary and preventive care.

Additionally, he said, the government should ensure that the potential of the Mater Dei Hospital, which was a considerable public expense, is maximised.