The General Workers’ Union vice president, Edmond Cefai, has passed away at the age of 60.

A statement issued by the union read that Mr Cefai died in hospital yesterday after having been in hospital for treatment during the last few weeks.

His funeral is to take place at the Msida parish church on Monday at 2.30p.m.

Mr Cefail had been appointed his post with the union in October 2009 during the Union’s National Congress.

He served on a number of boards as vice president of subsidiary companies of the union, including Untours (a travel and insurance agency). He also served on the Social and Economic Development Council.

Mr Cefai also served in other GWU posts such as the Chemical and Energy sector and the Hospitality and food sector. He was president of both the sectors.

GWU Secretary General Tony Zarb said that the union lost a person who strongly defended the worker.

He said his death will leave a massive void in the union.

“We lost a man of strong principles, ones which were always based on social justice,” he said.

In a statement, the Forum Unions Maltin Executive Council expressed its solidarity with the General Workers Union for the loss of their Vice President Mr. Edmond Cefai.  The Forum Unions Maltin would also like to send their deep  and sincere condolences to the family of Mr. Cefai for this great family loss. For. U. M. had the opportunity to work closely with Mr. Cefai on local and international affairs and one could easily recognise the excellent qualities Mr. Cefai possessed in his line of duty to preserve the worker’s rights and to strengthen their opportunities for better working conditions. Mr. Cefai was a true gentleman in all aspects.

Solidarity was also expressed by Malta Union of Midwives & Nurses.