to discuss the issue of the Malta Shipyards privatisation.
Dr Muscat was speaking during a public meeting held at the Labour Party band club in Hamrun. He earlier visited Valletta and Floriana.
“I am disappointed as some people seem to have a very short memory,” said Dr Muscat, referring to Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi.
He quoted a statement made by Dr Gonzi on 14 March where the prime minister promised to hold a series of discussions with the unions to review and find solutions about the shipyard’s problems.
“However, a few weeks after he made this statement, he called a press conference announcing the privatisation process of the shipyard without even informing the main union concerned,” said Dr Muscat.
Prime Minister Gonzi acted alone – this is a shame, he said. This is not the MLP’s style – “we are ready to listen to everyone,” said Dr Muscat.
However, he welcomed the “cordial” first meeting between the government and the General Workers Union, which was held on Friday.
Dr Muscat said the prime minister is not taking full advantage of the tools available.
“One of the best forums for this discussion can take place at the Employment Relations Board,” he said.
Dr Muscat said the Labour Party not only belonged to Labourites but to those who have leftist ideals and those who agree with certain ideals put forward by the party.
The Labour leader pointed out that the concept of moderation is not an easy one to accept in a country ridden by
“I know it isn’t easy especially when people have been suffering for over 20 years because they had different political beliefs,” he said.
However, Dr Muscat said that the trend seems to be changing and that he felt there is a to will to change.
He also referred to the White Paper on the Rent Reform that was launched on Saturday. “A day before this white paper was released, the opposition publicly stated that it welcomed this paper – we will not be spectators.”
Dr Muscat said the Labour Party is ready to a listening process that will ensure that a sustainable balance is created between landlords and tenants. “The Labour Party will go in for this responsibility and fulfil it.”
During his speech, he also referred to the issue of pairing, on which there is no agreement as yet.
Dr Muscat said that the government presented a list of conferences which had to be attended by ministers or MPs. “Three times we turned down the request for pairing as we felt that there was no advantage for the country. However, this week we accepted their request as an important treaty and meeting was coming up which we felt was of importance to the country.”