The GWU called on all social partners to take a common stand and send a clear message to the government that they will no longer accept such a situation.

If the government did not change its attitude, this would mean that it would be endangering the concept of social dialogue and the GWU would have to reconsider its position within the MCESD.

For the government to show it really believed in the contribution that could be made by the social partners, it should stop the implementation of eco-tax until it discusses the issue with them. The GWU said an evaluation should be made on the impact eco-tax would have on workers and pensioners, as well as employers.

It called for a discussion on the best mechanism that could be used to implement this tax. The GWU said a consensus should be reached with all social partners.

The introduction of such a tax will not enable the government to reach its aims to protect the environment, and was solely intended for the government to increase its revenue.

In another statement, the Union Haddiema Maghqudin insisted that the government should postpone the introduction of an eco-tax until discussion has taken place within the MCESD.

The union protested about the government’s lack of consultation over the matter, saying that eco-tax will have a negative impact on pensioners, workers and their families.

It said the government should commit itself to work more with the social partners on matters of national interest. The UHM will not be ready to enter negotiations on a social pact if the government continues to introduce measures such as an eco-tax.

The UHM said that a lack of participation by the government in the MCESD will mean that “we would be nearing an industrial confrontation.”