Incentives fruitful 'in the distant future'

The Maltese Unions Forum acknowledged the incentives proposed in the 2010 Budget, if undertaken, would reap results but only in the distant future.

It said yesterday that, for the time being, the quality of life and spending power of the workforce were not expected to improve.

It emphasised the importance of completing proposed projects and schemes as well as launching fresh incentives because this was the only way for the economy to pick up again.

With regard to the €31 million being allocated to the Malta Tourism Authority to boost promotion in this difficult economic climate, the MUF said it was of utmost importance this was used with care rather than given out in subsidies.

It lamented the rise in water, electricity and gas tariffs, saying these could hinder the competitiveness of industries and put more pressure on families and pensioners.

It urged the government to tackle social service abuse and the squandering of public funds and also to adopt a serious stance on tax evasion.