A €1.16 cost of living adjustment has been confirmed for next Monday’s budget, according to GWU general secretary Tony Zarb.

Speaking at the end of a meeting of the Malta Council for Economic and Social Development, Mr Zarb said that although some of the proposals the minister made looked interesting, it seemed that the people were to remain burdened.

He said that the €1.16 Cola increase was confirmed when it was well known that the cost of living had increased by much more.

William Portelli, president of the Confederation of Malta Trade Unions said that the budget on Monday was to focus particularly on reducing the deficit.

The CMTU, he said, was also stressing that vulnerable situations should be addressed.

GRTU director general Vince Farrugia said the budget should emphasise the economy’s credibility vis-a-vis what was happening in the EU to avoid criticism and sanctions and for the benefit of the country.

Gejtu Tanti, president of the Union Haddiema Maghqudin said that the minister had listened to the unions who stressed that growth and investment had to be ensured while the workers were assisted and the social aspect was given the attention is deserved.

Malta Employers Association president Pierre Fava said that next Monday’s budget was to be one of consolidation.

MCESD chairman Sonny Portelli described the meeting as calm and constructive.

The social partners, he said, made their comments and the minister listened.

Finance Minister Tonio Fenech said that the final decisions would not be taken before Monday.