Eddy Privitera (May 5) seems to be very happy about the PL’s success in recent years. However, had it not been for President Emeritus Eddie Fenech Adami, whose foresight has no parallel, Privitera would still be living in a jungle.
I am sure that he still has a couple of e-mails against Malta joining the EU. It is true that, for the time being, Malta is enjoying what seems to be a healthy climate.
However, had he asked about the working conditions of many of the employees, the conclusion is a different one.
First of all the employer tells the employees not to mention anything about their low wages vis-a-vis their long working hours. Bonus or sick leave are non-existent, especially those owned by underhanded employers. Many catering establishments are opening with staff coming from their country of origin, including the cleaners, workers, etc.
To know whether wages are decent ones, you have to compare them to the increase in the cost of living and housing availability on the market. The rent of a one-bedroom apartment (if lucky) in Sliema and its vicinity costs between €500 or €600 a week. Plus water and electricity rates and so on.
Is it something to be proud of knowing that many school-leavers, including those with a diploma, cannot find a decent job?