AD is not a newcomer on this issue. In fact AD chairperson Dr Harry Vassallo had objected to the inheritance of port worker jobs
“We are glad that the government is finally waking up to face this reality,” said AD’s spokesperson on the economy and tourism, Edward Fenech.
AD also called on the government to refrain from adopting neo liberal solutions in addressing this issue.
In the European Parliament the Greens were instrumental in the vote against self-handling in European ports. “We oppose this proposal not only to save jobs but also to ensure that safety standards are fully observed with handlers remaining accountable to the national port authorities.”
AD favours a modernised port handling system in which port workers still require a licence to operate, but this licence must not be inherited. Port work in the Freeport and oil terminals should be handled by professional staff, AD added. In other areas, licensed cargo handlers can be organised in a competitive environment.”
This reform would make Malta more competitive without in any way weakening social and environmental standards, Mr Fenech concluded.