Dr Sant, who was addressing women as part of activities marking Workers’ Day, said there is a need for greater participation from women in decisions taken.

Women should “really” be given the same opportunities as men – something that does not exist in Malta, he said, adding that he believes there should be positive discrimination in favour of women for a number of

years.

The country needed to reflect on how gender equality should have an effective social and economic impact. The fact that many women are not being utilised is like having a factory where half the machines are not working.

Inequality should be rectified, said Dr Sant, adding that

women should participate more in workplaces.

At a time when it is being said that workers cannot carry the burden of pensions, there should be a drive towards enabling more women to work. Malta, he said, had the lowest rate of women workers in Europe.