Updated 4.30 p.m.

Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi this afternoon kicked off a series of meetings aimed at putting the PN back at the heart of society, by meeting a delegation from FORUM - the trade union group.

He will also be meeting the management of Karin Grech Rehabilitation Hospital and a delegation of Monti hawkers later this afternoon.

At the end of the meeting, FORUM president John Bencini said this was a cordial meeting where the government appeared to better understand that the FORUM could contribute to the country by being present at MCESD. The government, he said, appeared committed to solve the impasse.

Dr Gonzi had announced his intention to hold such meetings when he addressed the PN general council after the leadership contest, where he was the only candidate.

He had appointed Simon Busuttil as his delegate to organise the meetings. Dr Busuttil is attending today's meetings, which are being held at the Azad offices in Valletta. Health Minister Joe Cassar will attend the meeting with the Karin Grech management.

Dr Gonzi had said at the council meeting that he intended to use such meetings to get a better feel of society and listen to the people's concerns. He also asked PN general secretary Paul Borg Olivier to set up meetings between ministers and various sectors of society.

The FORUM trade unions has repeatedly complained to the government about not having a seat on the Malta Council for Economic and Social Development.

The Monti hawkers have, meanwhile, protested over the new location of the Sunday market in Horn Works Ditch just outside Floriana.

At the opening of the first meeting, Dr Gonzi said this series of meetings, called Kuntatt, was a means to bring about change in the PN's policies as required.   The purpose was to listen to the social partners, reflect on what was said, and take the necessary decision. The holding of the first meeting with FORUM was symbolic as the unions represented an important sector of the economy.  This discussion was intended to find the best way how FORUM could contribute to the country better through participation in national fora.

Mr Bencini welcomed the fact that this was the first meeting of the new series. This was seen as recognition of FORUM's role as the representative of 11 trade unions. He expressed his regret that despite being a member of the European Trade Union Confederation, FORUM could not give its contribution in the MCESD. He was confident that a solution could be found without prolonging the issue further.When the meeting ended,