The Alternattiva Demokratika is concerned over the issuing of develpment permits "left, right and centre by the Planning Authority," arguing that the situation has led to several issues, including the need to "import" constuction workers.
"We appreciate the fact that the government is saying that it will ensure, at the very least least, minimum employment conditions for these workers, but this is not enough. It is also clear that advances in education has led to a drastic reduction of unskilled or semi-skilled workers in the construction industry. The government should take this opportunity to cut the construction industry down to size through policies restraining the excesses of this industry and reduce the economic dependence of the country on it."
AD Chairperson Carmel Cacopardo added:"It is clear what is happening. The db Group, for example, after being acquiring public land from Government for a pittance, is now doing its utmost to minimize the cost of construction to further increase its profits to the maximum possible."
Anna Azzopardi, spokesperson on social affairs said: "As a European country, the Maltese government should ensure that all workers in Malta have access to appropriate and dignified living conditions. Indeed, in Malta it has now become common for flats to be crammed with tenants. There is an urgent need for standards on multiple occupancy of residential units. The reality is that the minimum wage and also the median wage are not keeping up with runaway rental prices. It makes no sense to bring foreign workers on the minimum wage to Malta when not even resident workers and Maltese workers who do not own a property can afford to pay for decent housing."
"We are in a situation that condones and allows foreign workers to live in sub-standard conditions. This is not acceptable in a modern society. It is also another reason to urgently reevaluate the minimum wage. The minimum wage should be a living wage."