Forum has called on the Economic Intelligence Unit for an explanation about a remark made in its report for June that the recent expansion of the Malta Council for Economic and Social Development to include Forum and the Gozo Regional Committee, was likely to hinder the council's effectiveness.

The EIU also said this arrangement would make reaching agreement between the social partners on issues such as wage indexation reform and pension system more difficult.

In a statement this morning, Forum strongly condems "this disreputable, shameful and defamatory remark".

It said it was convinced was a hidden agenda from a local organisation whose sole intention was to defame and slander Forum and the Gozo Regional Committee.

"It would be very interesting if EIU would reveal the source of such a scandalous remark," it said.

Forum noted that its officials had already attended three MCESD meetings during which they offered a valid, positive, sound and effective contribution for the benefit of the country and Maltese workers.

"Forum expects the MCESD chairman, the government and the opposition to also condemn these manouver," it said.