Companies were hiring workers from independent contractors, who in turn labour under poor working conditions, according to General Workers’ Union general secretary Tony Zarb, as he highlighted a new form of exploitation.

“Instead of hiring employees, some companies are hiring workers from independent contractors. As a result, the contractors make a lot of money while the workers barely receive the minimum wage. This is a new form of exploitation,” he warned.

Speaking at the biannual conference of technology, electronics, and communications section of the GWU, Mr Zarb said the trade union had made strides since the fight to overcome precarious work started two years ago.

He added that the trade union had often been submitted to “ferocious attacks” from previous administrations.

Currently, he charged, top Opposition officials were urging workers not to join the GWU and instead form part of the Union Ħaddiema Magħqudin, claims the Nationalist Party continues to deny.

Mr Zarb said he would be elaborating further on the issue during the general congress to be held on October 3 and themed Seventy Years There for You (Sebgħin Sena Hemm Għalik).

On September 28 and 29 a number of family activities will be organised at the GWU.