A proper mechanism to protect consumers from price increases was needed, general secretary Gejtu Vella said.

Addressing a press conference, he said that mechanism the country had before it introduced the euro had worked and something similar was required.

He hoped the government would live up to its commitment to turn the National Euro Changeover Committee to an agency to monitor the fluctuations of prices.

Mr Vella said such a mechanism would keep a watchful eye on price movements especially since the cost of living in Malta was increasing at a faster pace than that in other countries.

On the cost of living adjustment granted by the government at every budget, Mr Vella said a balance had to be sought between compensating people for the rise in the cost of living and the protection of jobs. He said all stakeholders had to be involved in the debate on this.

The UHM, he said, was pleased that the pre-budget document focused on economic growth, employment and social cohesion as these were issues that the union had been harping about for a long time.

He said that despite an increase in the number of unemployed, jobs were still being created.

UĦM president Gejtu Tanti spoke about the 10th edition of the UĦM Fest, taking place between tomorrow and Sunday at the parking area in front of Ta Fra Ben in Qawra.

The highlight tomorrow is a concert by Freddie Portelli while the legendary group New Courey, of Bajja tal-Mellieħa fame, are to perform on Sunday evening along with a number of singers, including Chiara.