Bank of Valletta yesterday issued a statement to clarify reports that appeared in section of the media (not TMID) on Wednesday regarding talks with the Malta Union of Bank Employees on the issue of reduced hours.

BOV confirmed that discussions had been ongoing with the Malta Union of Bank Employees (MUBE), with a view to improve on the current conditions available to staff who wish to work “reduced hours”.

“At a scheduled meeting held this morning with the MUBE, it was agreed that a letter issued to a number of staff members, currently working on reduced hours, could have been misinterpreted, and that therefore this letter is being withdrawn, until such time as the discussions with the respective union representing the managerial, supervisory and clerical grades are finalised,” the bank said yesterday.

It added that it was not ethical to reveal any further information at a stage when discussions were being held between the parties concerned.

In the meantime, the bank is holding further talks on the matter, it said.