Speaking at a meeting held yesterday with Labour MP Charles Mangion, Mr Farrugia said Malta is currently facing serious problems and the economy is not moving forward. Unemployment is still rife and will increase if the necessary measures are not taken. He also said that if taxes are increased the country will have no way of developing.

If the economy is to move forward, those who are ready to invest must be helped, said the GRTU. Mr Farrugia said that even though the government is in a tight financial situation, it should not resort to playing with words.

Mr Farrugia claimed the opposition should play an active role in social dialogue. The director general praised the MLP for its way of thinking and the meetings it has been organising regarding the document it has drawn up.

In response to Mr Farrugia’s words of praise, Mr Mangion thanked the chamber for its support and the effort it showed in analysing the MLP’s document.

This draft speaks of Malta’s need for direction. This should be done within the context of the Lisbon strategy, said Mr Mangion. The social sector must also be given the necessary attention.

The Labour MP noted that among the 25 EU countries, Malta is the one that is predicting the least level of development over the next three years.

The meeting between the GRTU and the Labour MP was one in a series the MLP is holding with the social partners to discuss its draft for economic and social development, a document that will be discussed in parliament today.