Żminijietna believes that Budget 2012 should give specific importance to social and environmental justice in order to improve the quality of life of Maltese families. The budget should also include clear policies towards green energy.

On the other hand, we are concerned that the government’s strategy to reduce deficit and public expenditure will be on the same line with that of increasing energy tariffs and the selling of public land and entities.

We suggest the government to stop promoting precarious employment through public contracts and instead introduce new regulations to combat this form of modern slavery and give tax incentives for the creation of green jobs.

Żminijietna believes that emphasis should also be made on an increase in the national minimum wage which encompasses full-time employees, part-timers and those on definite contract. The ‘tax exempt’ benchmark for those on low income should increase.

Housing is an important aspect that should be addressed due to high prices, high interest rates and limited land resources. Government should re-introduce subsidies for first time buyers and increase public investment in social housing. We appeal for a progressive tax on vacant property, from the third property onwards and fiscal penalties on property left in a state of abandonment.

Żminijietna proposes that people suffering from myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME) and fibromyalgia (FM) are entitled to the same rights and benefits as enjoyed by those with disabilities. The government should also review its position and re-open the dentistry service in local clinics and invest in a chemotherapy service in Gozo.

Government should also address the problem of lack of medicines, long waiting lists and the ongoing deterioration of the primary public health care system.

The national strategy for more women to enter the labour market cannot be heard unless the government takes this issue seriously. Government should increase investment in affordable childcare facilities, support the EU maternity leave directive and introduce clear policies towards work-life balance, which will include the private sector.

From the fiscal point of view and given the fact that public debt seems to be unsustainable, the government should intensify the battle against tax evasion and ensure a proper and efficient eco-tax system. Government should also consider increasing windfall taxes on the financial institutions, gaming industry and banking sector. These should help to offset the increase in social expenditure and public debt. The economy is there to serve the people and not vice versa.

Żminijietna appeals to the government to keep maintaining a free compulsory educational system. The introduction of an additional, optional subject to be taught at secondary school level, under the auspice of B-TEC , should be free and accessible to all. We call on the government to protect this right.

Michael Camilleri

President

Żminijietna – Voice of the Left