Members of the diplomatic service have been instructed by UHM Voice of the Workers not to use electronic means of communication following an industrial dispute with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The Malta Independent reported on Wednesday that diplomats were threatening to strike over a call that could see unqualified individuals take on diplomatic roles.

The union said this step was taken in the wake of an expression of interest issued by the same Ministry which is in breach of the sectoral agreement. Under this call, a pool of employees would be created among public officials wanting to perform the duties of attaché.

“The sectoral agreement strictly regulates the recruitment process of members within the diplomatic corps and forbids unqualified personnel to perform such duties. Consequently, this call sets a precedent as it undermines the diplomatic service which is crucial in Malta’s foreign relations and is a threat to the prospects of career diplomats,” the union said.

UHM said it flagged the matter with the Permanent Secretary as soon as the call was issued.

“Although the Ministry promised that the expression of interest would be suspended, this was never confirmed in writing. Meanwhile, the Ministry did not accede to the union's request for an urgent meeting. Faced with such attitude, UHM had no choice but to declare an industrial dispute.”

Furthermore, UHM said, there are other outstanding issues between the union and the Ministry.

Under this directive, diplomatic staff have been instructed against communicating by means of emails, telephones, mobile phones, social media platforms as well as the emergency phone.

UHM warned that if no progress is registered, it will have to step up its action and does not exclude taking further steps.