(Adds ETC's denial)

The Employment and Training Corporation has categorically denied an allegation by GWU general secretary Tony Zarb that the number of precarious jobs is on the rise, increasing the risk of workers falling below the poverty line.

Mr Zarb said during a seminar on poverty and social exclusion organised by the GWU that the government had to show stronger commitment towards workers and open its eyes to realities of abuse.

Cleaners at the Paola health centre, for example, were working for 38 hours a week but being paid for 30. Clerical workers at the Employment and Training Corporation, he added, were being asked to remain registered as self-employed.

However, the ETC categorically denied the allegation. "Persons carrying out clerical duties for the ETC are not engaged on self-employed basis," a spokesman said.

Mr Zarb said there were some workers in the construction industry who had to agree not to be given the cost of living adjustment last year if they wanted to retain their jobs.

Bus drivers, he added, worked between 16 and 18 hours a day. They were paid for 48 hours when they worked 56 hours, Mr Zarb said.