Fair and transparent reform at Air Malta

The government must guarantee work to those employees who do not voluntarily take up the early retirement scheme at Air Malta for their own reasons. Several reports on labour studies show that a person whose age is over 45 years finds it difficult to re-enter the labour market. National statistics also show that, in the case of new jobs, part-time employment is overriding full-time employment and work on a low pay and short-term contract is becoming a regular model of employment.

All these factors will make it difficult for the workers to find alternative employment with decent conditions of work. The government’s decision to reduce the workforce by approximately 500 workers is an indication that the blame is being put on the workers for Air Malta’s bankruptcy. So far, no action has been taken against all those who took the wrong decisions and put Air Malta’s finances at risk.

As a priority, the government should address the issue of low-cost airlines, the negative impact generated by the privatisation of Malta International Airport and the outsourcing of contracts to private entities.

Only after this procedure will the government and the unions be in a good position to discuss the real problems facing Air Malta finances.

If the government wants to work in the national interest on this issue, it should stop threatening the workers with comments suggesting the liquidation of the company. But instead it should take note of what the unions are saying and address the points raised.

We at Żminijietna – Voice of the Left support the unions’ call for a fair and transparent reform. We encourage all workers at Air Malta to unite.