It is not acceptable to force workers to join a union, PN Leader Bernard Grech has said.

Asked by this newsroom whether the PN agrees with the concept that all workers should be made to join a union, Opposition Leader Bernard Grech said no.

“While we will continue to explain the importance of joining a union should people want, as it is better that workers are represented as they would have a stronger position and could fight for better wages and conditions, it is not acceptable to force workers to be members of a union. We believe that which is found in the constitution, that everyone has a basic right to join a union, but are not forced to join.”

The PL's manifesto proposes to start discussions with the social partners to introduce mandatory union membership for workers. In its manifesto, the PL says that it agrees in principle with mandatory union membership.

Grech was also asked how the PN would ensure that the PA would not approve mega projects that uglify the country.

“If trusted to govern I will not interfere with the authorities or the independent institutions, but we will ensure that everyone abides by the regulations and so development opportunities will be issued according to the regulations and policies in place. It is not acceptable for me for a politician to eat with a developer and agree to issue a permit. This creates a disadvantage to others who want to invest. Business people want a level playing field, and that is what we will provide.”

He said that neither he nor PN ministers will ask for a commission or a donation for them to take what would be rightfully theirs according to regulations.