Updated: GWU to boycott MCESD meeting on the tariffs

j micallef

Jan 14th 2010, 10:34

The MCESD is chock full of ladies and gentlemen whose agenda is limited to defending employers, small time enterprises, and the level of employment , in the light of the impact of high tariffs. Who is, however, championing the cause of the common Maltese citizen and the pensioner hovering around the poverty line, against the astronoimical hike in tariffs, and more serious than this, against certain discriminatory measures affecting particular sections of the populations adversely, such as persons who cannot do without a lift because of their advanced age or a problem with their health?

Christopher Camilleri

Jan 14th 2010, 09:32

And that ladies and gentlemen. . . is why this country never moves forward!!

Paul Smith

Jan 13th 2010, 21:13

In our energy constrained future a far smaller percentage of a much smaller population will be able to get by without directly participating in food production. Maybe some of them will be historians, and a portion of those will understand the role that resource depletion (especially energy) played in the downfall of our society. The rest will believe what their church tells them.

Paul Smith

Jan 13th 2010, 20:55

Few people seem to understand how much energy we use and the role it plays in our daily lives - we've been swimming in so much energy for so long we can no longer even see it, like fish cannot see the ocean. As things start to fall apart due to the increasing costs of energy (both in terms of energy and money), I doubt they will suddenly begin to see it. Instead it will be framed in terms of other things, and focus will be diverted to scapegoating, etc.

Beyond that, the idea of peak oil means that all we have built was really just a result of our exploitation of cheap and bountiful energy (and other resources), as opposed to our exceptional, magnificent abilities. That's not a message that people want to understand, so they won't. Climate change, in contrast, tells us that we are so powerful we can change the planet. I expect that hundreds of years from now people will still be trying to achieve the dream of restoring the former glory of the industrial age, not understanding the reasons it ended.

C.camilleri

Jan 13th 2010, 19:36

Tony Zarb in order for you to be credible, just imitate your counter part Gejtu Vella.

Remember when the MLP raised the utility tariffs? In less than 24 hours the UHM brought the Free Port to a complete stop and then demanded a 21 euros salary increase.

Tony today you missed the coffee served at the MCSED or as a PN minister better described it as a coffee shop.

Jeremy J Camilleri

Jan 13th 2010, 19:15

Joseph Gatt....You talk about a political agenda and then quote mis truths.

The Labour Government did not impose its tariffs. Actually, the tariffs in question were never even put into force.

For all others, it is not solely the GWU that is strongly against these tariffs, but a host of organisations, some even led by individuals who are obvious nationalists, so I feel to see why some are stating that this is a partisan issue.

Regarding the meeting in question, what is the use of discussing, when the decision making power has already stated that these tariffs are there to stay?

John Abela

Jan 13th 2010, 19:08

The GWU leaders can be compared to the Italians in World War Two....'coraggio fuggiamo!!!!

James Debono

Jan 13th 2010, 18:20

Way to go Mr Zarb. Now take us to the streets. I'm sure even the government apologists will join you.

jesmond zammit

Jan 13th 2010, 17:58

mcesd min organu essenzali ,gonzi irnexxielu jgibu paljazza

Karl Abela

Jan 13th 2010, 17:48

Discussing the tariffs is a waste of time. Its not the solution to cheap energy. In 2008 we experienced the peak of a disguised terrorist attack from the arab world in the form of USD145 per barrel. The recession saved us, but we are quickly heading towards that price again especially if another war breaks which looking likely more than ever.

The unions know this, but they diverge the topic as they please in order to keep up the memebership fees coming in.

The real discussion should be focused on how to educate the public to make of use of the government rebate schemes on energy savers such as solar water heaters, AAA appliances and energy saving lights, double glazing, etc etc.

Joseph Gatt

Jan 13th 2010, 17:39

James Grech and John Borg - as if you dont know that the GWU has had for a long time a political agenda, namely that to try and topple the PN Government. The thing is that the PN leaves it to do whatever it wants since the PN is a truly democratic party. The PN is in government through the will of the people in free and fair elections and therefore the GWU has no right to impose its political agenda on the Government. The tariffs are there to stay what ever one says or does. Even the Labour government imposed its own tariffs without any murmur from the GWU. So what's the difference? That today there is a Nationalist Government.

J Busuttil

Jan 13th 2010, 17:32

The GWU should have attended the MCESD meeting. It is there that the interests of the workers are. But it seems that although the GWU knows what the tariffs are it has no technical evidence against the tariffs. The GWU knows too that Govt is subsidising residential comsumption by forking 7 million Euro to families who needs assistance and another 10 million Euro ta 97% of Maltese families. Forum should tell the GWU (who has 2 seats on MCESD) to forfeit one seat to them. After vall UHM and CMTU has one seat each.

Joe Vella

Jan 13th 2010, 17:04

@ James Grech

James, one not only need to read the article at hand to comment but also keep in mind recent events as well.

We All knew that the Tariffs were going up since sometime early November if not earlier. The Government knew what the ball game of the increase in tariffs asked by Enemalta was. At that time It was only left for the Regulator to check if the increase asked was justified or not. The Government in the budget compensated most domestic consumers and set funds aside for industry in difficulty for the anticipated increases.

What I cannot understand is why Tony Zarb finds it so strange in what the Prime Minister had to say. One would only expect Tariffs to change if it was discovered that wrong data had been used in calculating the new tariffs.

Tony Zarb actions are nothing more then shenanigans and not worthy of an Union Leader.

Lawrence Fenech

Jan 13th 2010, 16:56

Hekk tajjeb qabel kull meeting kollox "ipso factum"ghas sur Gonzi.

DUSTY WILLIAMS

Jan 13th 2010, 16:54

ANGLU VELLA

MHUX VERA JEW GHANDU RAGUN! BILLI JIRRAPREZENTA L HADDIEMA X'JISTA JAGHMEL MA DAL GVERN? FIT TOROQ MA HARIGX? X GARA? XEJN, M ILUX IHAMBAQ FIL VOJT? X IMUR JAGHMEL? MHUX KOLLOX KIF INHU SE JIBQA, MELA DAL GVERN HALLA LIL XIHADD JITKELLEM? JEW JAQBDU JGHAJRUK, JEW JINJORAWK.

ISSA LI WIKKEJTUNA BI GVERN ILU FALLUT MINN QABEL L ELEZZJONI EJJA NIEHDU GOST FLIMKIEN FORSI XI DARBA DAN IL POPLU INEHHI FTIT MILL HDURA LI GHANDU FUQU U JIBDA JUZA MOHHO IZJED!

j micallef

Jan 13th 2010, 16:46

I have a nagging feeling that the PL feels smug with the astronimical rise in utility tariffs and the great discontent it has aroused, as this is almost a sure victory for the PL in the next general elections. I base this feeling of mine on the very low key and half-hearted criticism of the PL on this hot issue we have had so far, and now also on Zarb's refusal to participate in any forum that might - just might, mind you - result in an easing of the immense hardship the new utility tariffs are going to impose on the population. The majority of the people in Malta do not realise what really hit them with this new rise in tariffs, as they only base their fears on what they hear from others. The real great shock will dawn on everyone, once the first actual (not estimated!) bills are received in 6 months' time. Just as a small example, those living in blocks of flats served by lifts are not aware that their annual electricity lift bill of €27 they used to receive until Oct 2008, will henceforth exceed the €250 annually! Who is championing the small consumer?

James Grech

Jan 13th 2010, 16:26

"Mr Zarb said at a press conference that the Prime Minister had already declared that the new tariffs would stay"
some of you ppl do not even read the articles. You just blogg your brains out. I think that the reason behind Mr Zarb's argument is strong. From the time that this meeting was called, ie. way back in December, Gov had all the time to think things out, in his favour obviously. In fact he met with some of the unions and discussed things, head to head. Thus most probably it is all well planned and rehearsed, what is going to be said and done today. Those of you who will be hit by the tariffs or are not glad to fork out your hard earned money for the inefficiencies and the lack of good governance, step forward and be counted. Cause its one thing to blogg and another to show what stuff you're made off. Remember the saying in Maltageddon the movie: "We are Maltese and we take no s***"

John Borg

Jan 13th 2010, 16:26

For some people whatever the GWU does is never right! I wonder what they would have said if a labour government was in power and increased the W& E tariffs in this way? At the end of the day this hefty increase in the tariffs will surely contribute to making more people fall below the poverty line and our industry and tourism uncompetitive. Do we have a recession or not?! These increases will make things worse for everybody except perhaps for those that have a cushy job, like some people who have commented on this article!

Joe Vella

Jan 13th 2010, 16:21

There is only one practical solution left. Throw the GWU out of the MCESD and invite RORUM instead to join MCESD.

After all, it seems to me that the GWU have been loosing members of late while other Unions, including FORUM are increasing their membership.

P.Cassar

Jan 13th 2010, 16:21

Prosit GWU for calling the govt bluff. It high time that Gonzipn stops taking prople for a ride.

Sinclair Calleja

Jan 13th 2010, 16:14

One can compare the previous utility bills with the new bills by downloading software for free from http://www.mybill.com.mt

The software will calculate bills using the new rates for periods after 1 January 2010 for residential, domestic and non-residential tariffs.

Angela Vella

Jan 13th 2010, 16:06

Flok ma jirraprezenta l-interessi tal-haddiema !

E Gatt

Jan 13th 2010, 15:58

What is the point of discussing and re-discussing the water and electricity rates?

It is about time that we accept our hard luck that Malta is an oil-dependent country, and the era of cheap oil is unfortunately over. We are not alone, and hopefully investment in technology will result in a world that will not be so oil-dependent in the future.

In my opinion the MCESD, including the GWU, should be discussing improvements in the efficiency of Enemalta and the taboo subject of possible layoffs.

R Agius

Jan 13th 2010, 15:54

Oh great! This is an informative session where everything will be explained - in true MLP/GWU style the easiest way to avoid the issues at hand and offer constructive solutions is to sit on the fence and criticise. The mask (if ever there was one) has fallen off. The subtlety of the GWU is what amazes me - they have no idea of the role they play in our society - they are simply a pawn in the MLP's arsenal with one single aim - that of getting the MLP into power at all costs. The GWU and the MLP were NEVER on the side of the workers - at least not int he last 2 years or so and certainly not even in those ill-fated 22 months starting in 1996.

The GWU should be ashamed of itself and the whole of its executive, that have been exploiting its unknown membership for so long should get out of the way or reveal that it is an extension of the MLP!

A. Vassallo

Jan 13th 2010, 15:51

@ Joseph Brincat

Do you have the b...s to enlighten us and mention who, according to you, is the "puppet one" and who is it that one that has already committed itself from all the other unions ?

G. Camilleri

Jan 13th 2010, 15:45

DAK DJALOGU SOCJALI PAR EXCELLANCE!!!!!!! Taghlaq halq il-FOR.U.M, konfederazzjoni ta' 11 il-Union!!!!!!!!!!!!! u tiskludihom!! PROSIT SUR GONZI!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

N.Calleja

Jan 13th 2010, 15:42

What an orchestrated twist! The GWU and Forum organise a press conference at the same venue and almost at the same time...one to tell us that it is boycotting the MCESD meeting and the other potesting to be included! What a farce!! In or out?

Paul Borg

Jan 13th 2010, 15:42

It is rather starnge that the Union which is part of the MCESD does not want to attend and the other Unions which are not part of the MCESD want to attend.....how about replace the GWU with the FORUM in the MCESD

M Tabone

Jan 13th 2010, 15:35

Unfortunately social dialogue is being interpreted as a space to fight and tussle with Government rather as an interface to discuss and consult Government for the benefit of all. If GWU does not understand the concept of MCESD, I recommend GWU to quit the Council ones for all. Same as happened with the issue of the Social Pact.

James Grech

Jan 13th 2010, 15:29

While the GWU's reaction is understandable, I think that the boycott attitude should change to one of confrontation with respect to the items at discussion. Even though gov has committed itself to increase these tariffs and don't want to hear reason, the union should be there to see what is the actual reaction of the other unions. The GWU should be always present on the front to represent its members and present their views and ailments. The opting out solution has been over exploited and most probably is by now assumed to happen, so its effect is minimal and the perception that people have from this is that of impotence.

J Farrugia

Jan 13th 2010, 15:22

Dan huwa t-teatrin tal-GWU li ilha tghajjat ghal laqgha tal-MCESD biex wara minuta tohrog il-barra? Mela tahseb li hija biss tezisti f'malta basta qaghdet taqla n-nies ghalxejn. Bi skuza jew b'ohra dil-GWU trid turi kemm hija union bazwija. Jew bezghet li tisma l-verita' kollha ghax ser ikunu prezenti l-awtoritajiet u jikxfu l-karti kollha quddiemha? Possibbli l-GWU bezghet minn sfida bhal din?

Paul Smith

Jan 13th 2010, 15:22

It would be nice to know what Mr. Zarb's solutions are to the coming global energy crisis and resource depletion, or does he think Malta has it's very own oil spigbots?
He always seemed such an intelligent chap when i used to see him slouched on the sofa when he used to frequent the Jerma Palace Hotel - some of the language he used to use was a trite colourful to say the least.

D. Scerri

Jan 13th 2010, 15:19

Whilst I appreciate the reasons behind the GWU walking out of the meeting I dont think I fully agree. This is because it will make Gonzipn's life easier..the lesser the opposition to the tariffs the more he can keep on bulldozing on everyone. I think GWU should be there to voice their opposition alongside the other MCESD members.

Joseph E Briffa

Jan 13th 2010, 15:11

I am afraid the GWU's decision not to participate in this afternoon's meeting only shows that either the union has no case or they are not particularly cut up or that they have no suggestions to make. Another possibility is that the union is working on the expression of solidarity with patients due to the inconvenience caused by the union's strike directive to ambulance drivers.

Joseph Brincat

Jan 13th 2010, 15:10

At long last the GWU is heeding what the majority of the people wants. Action and not words.

Who can be fooled any longer by this arrogant government. Now let's see what the other Unions aim to do. The puppet one has already committed itself.

A. Vassallo

Jan 13th 2010, 15:05

Sur Zarb dan kollu li qed taghmel int u shabek ( dawk shabek li darba kienu l-ghedewwa tieghek) qed taghmlu biss ghall-gallarija u ghal xejn izjed.