In a short introductory speech, Dr Gonzi said this subject was also being discussed within the Malta Council for Economic and Social Development, on which the FOI participated as a social partner.

Dr Gonzi thanked the FOI for its input, adding that the competitiveness issue was an important one which had to be dealt with in the best possible manner. He said that increasing efficiency and competitiveness while reducing costs could mean taking difficult and important decisions.

However, he said, the social partners were understanding this need and their input and attitude gave the government confidence that an agreement on the issue could be reached.

On his part, FOI president Anton Borg mentioned a number of issues the federation wanted to discuss with Dr Gonzi. Among these he mentioned how to keep industry’s operating costs to a minimum, the high rate of taxation and extra burdens and the need for more cash in hand. He also mentioned the government’s deficit and how this could be tackled.

Following European Union membership, the federation’s office in Brussels is nearing completion. Here the federation will have its staff acquiring information for and assisting its members.

Earlier yesterday afternoon, Dr Gonzi also met a delegation from the Chamber of Pharmacists. As expected, a hot topic was the restriction of the number of licences for pharmacies.

Dr Gonzi said the government wanted to bring to an end this discussion by deciding the way forward once and for all.