The newly elected MEPs have a unique opportunity to ensure that the European Union puts the economy at the service of people - instead of the other way round, the Malta Union of Teachers said.

The EU’s economic policies have had serious impacts on the livelihood of the European citizens. The global economic crisis, caused by lack of financial regulation, irresponsible lending and the negligence of regulatory bodies, demonstrates that insufficient regulation can have serious economic and social consequences, it added.

It said the majority of the EU population feels discontented with EU decision-making processes. National politicians often consider “Brussels” as an external power and use it as a scapegoat for unpopular decisions. “This further undermines the EU’s credibility and its capacity to lead citizens through difficult times,” it said.

The MUT appealed to the newly-elected MEPs to work very closely with all social partners in Malta, “a practice which has not taken roots these past five years. Our MEPs should finally actively contribute to ensuring that the EU invests to provide more, better and sustainable jobs while responding to needs for essential services, social inclusion and a better environment.”