In the pre-budget document A Better Quality Of Life, presented by Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi as head of government two weeks ago, one of the points that seems to have hit home and scored points with the general public is the notice given that the government will be taking the appropriate steps to address existing problems in the field of employment.

Presently there are some +/-6300 people registering on the first part of the unemployment register. To be exact, the number at the end of May was 6,218. However if, on the other hand, one looks at the graphs for the period 2000 to 2005, the number varies between 6,218 and 8,124. Thus, not withstanding all efforts both by government resources as well as by the private sector, we do not seem to be able to reduce this figure.

If one analyses the figure, it would seem that there is a one per cent of the available workforce which, as in many other countries, is practically impossible to employ – for reasons which vary from capabilities to the mental state of the individual. Unfortunately, some people just cannot hold down a job.

With a Labour supply of 159,138, which tends to increase on a yearly basis, notwithstanding natural wastage brought about by those reaching retiring age, this is a continual challenge. And it is a challenge which tends to take different facets and shades.

In order to tackle such a problem, it is necessary to view the change of employment trends, market variations and shifts in types of businesses, as well as addressing those niches which may come our way.

The preparation of an efficient workforce in all those economic fields in which (subject to our size and geographical limitations) we may pay a part, may be the key to our success in this sector.

Continual preparation of both the unemployed and those in employment in areas which are being phased out due to market trends is of primary importance. Unfortunately, those in employment can see this as unnecessary. However, one has to project not only for the next few years but even for the distant future. What has proved to be enough so far can become less than the bare necessity tomorrow. A view at the differences brought about in all fields with the development of IT renders this raison d’etre a must in any eventuality.

Orientation of the skills of the up and coming younger generation, and at times the re-education of those who are finding themselves out of work because that line of business has lost its attraction or utility within the context of local industry, will definitely pay an important role in addressing this continual challenge. An open market is made up of people from all walks of life. However, preparing personnel in the required fields which are being attracted to our shores makes a lot of sense.

The labour market has to be ready for the challenge of the substantial restructuring process that is underway in our economy and the challenges of globalisation. In fact, the many initiatives already taken by the government are having the desired results although – as one can always say – there is still much room for improvement. The last five years have seen a nine per cent increase in further education of the younger population (the 20-24 age group), with the percentage now reaching almost 50 per cent.

On this basis, in 2004 the government embarked on the objective it set itself by way of the National Action for Employment, namely:

Improving the education and skill levels of the labour supply;

Raising the employment rate, particularly for women and those over the age of 55;

Addressing labour market distortions, including labour market mismatches, and ensuring that work pays;

Deploying public sector employees more efficiently;

Improving quality and productivity at work;

Promoting an inclusive labour market.

Each one of these objectives in itself then opens a forum for discussion, planning and action. Perhaps for the younger generation, the biggest drive in this field has been the expansion of the MCAST and its ever widening fields of study and specialisation.

The ETC is also trying to overturn fields which were previously unaffected and unaddressed in order to obtain better job mobility and create new openings for those who find themselves without work. It is trying to instill into the minds of its clients the willpower to address their unemployment problem concretely and do something to make themselves more available and attractive on the market.

To merely go and register for work and not take the initiative is “No Go”. There is no free manna falling out of the sky.

All efforts are to be made in the six sub-headings mentioned above. We cannot hope for the impossible, but all-round effort will make the difference at ground level.

The improbable may become possible and, with some favourable winds, also probable.

Tony Abela is Parliamentary Secretary in the Office of the Prime Minister