The increases confirm the government incompetence because, he said, it knew what was in store and yet had done nothing to mitigate the price increases. Mr Mizzi added that the increases not only affected those who had cars, but also hit various sectors of the economy. This meant that the increases will not only have a negative effect on the creation of jobs but could lead to more unemployment.

The increases could also lead to an increase in the cost of electricity and water.

This year, Enemalta will absorb the added costs but what will happen in future, Mr Mizzi asked.

GWU document on job creation

The General Workers Union has published a document on job creation, saying it was doing so because it was genuinely interested in the country’s well-being. Without work, the workers and the whole country will suffer, GWU general secretary Tony Zarb said yesterday.

The document was issued on the occasion of the union’s 61st anniversary, which falls today. It includes the union’s thoughts, opinions and recommendations on the present state of the country’s economy. The proposals are the second set the GWU has made public this year.

In the document published yesterday, the union tackles investment, job creation, social inclusion and economic growth.

Mr Zarb that the country was taking investment too much for granted. He added that the rate of workers is among the lowest in the European Union.

He said the union hoped that the document will create discussion and was prepared to work with everyone who wanted to see the proposals being implemented.

The document will be presented to the chairman of the Malta Council for Economic and Social Development, the three political parties and the employers’ associations.