The GRTU, Malta Chamber of SMEs, did not exclude taking industrial action after the government did not maintain its promises on agreements that were reached.

In a statement, the GRTU said the government has been procrastinating since 2014, and has also gone back on its word on matters that were already settled.

In 2014, the GRTU presented the government with a detailed study on a restructuring programme that needed to be in place by 2020.

Several meetings have been held since then, including more recently with the minister responsible, Joe Mizzi, but no progress has been achieved. It is clear that Mizzi is playing for time and going back on what was agreed to in the past, the GRTU said.

It therefore did not exclude taking necessary action to protect its interests.