Reference is made to the interview with president of the Confederation of Malta Trade Unions, William Portelli, (TMID, 8 May), where it is reported that Mr Portelli has stated that “there is a good possibility that the FORUM, composed of eight trade unions and associations, will join the CMTU once the new format is in place.”

FORUM would like to make it clear to your readers that it has no intention of joining the CMTU. FORUM will continue to collaborate with any other trade union or group of trade unions and other organisations with the objective of promoting the economic and social development of this country and consequently to improve the standard of living of our members. This is the reason why FORUM is insisting and will continue to insist that it should form part of the Malta Council for Economic and Social Development.

FORUM. believes that a Trade Union Council, or similar body, that brings together all Maltese trade unions would result in significant benefits not just to the workers that these trade unions represent but to the country as a whole. FORUM will therefore continue to actively promote the setting up of such body.

Dr Victor Buttigieg

Chairman,

FORUM