A new sectoral agreement for Civil Protection workers has been signed, introducing improved working conditions and career progression measures.

Since 2022, the Government has concluded around 140 agreements for workers and invested approximately €2 billion in wage increases alone, an official statement said.

During the signing ceremony, described as the largest investment in Civil Protection workers, Prime Minister Robert Abela stated that he feels proud to be leading a country that invests strongly in its workforce. The agreement further strengthens working conditions and career progression for officers within this important national corps.

In his address, the Prime Minister reiterated that each sectoral agreement signed represents another step forward in improving the situation of workers and their families.

He said that this agreement is one of nearly 140 sectoral agreements concluded since 2022. At the same time, he noted that the Government has invested around €2 billion in increases alone-an investment made possible by the country's strong economic performance.

This is another sectoral agreement for Civil Protection workers, following one signed in 2021.

The Prime Minister also pointed out that it was this administration that amended the law in 2015 to grant workers in disciplined forces the right to join unions, paving the way for the negotiation and signing of such agreements.

The new agreement will lead to substantial improvements in career progression and working conditions for officers. Among other measures, it provides an allowance of €1,500 and an annual increase of at least €2,200 for each officer, in addition to improved working conditions and faster scale progression.

The Prime Minister said this is a concrete example of how social principles in favour of workers and families are being translated into tangible measures that improve quality of life. He emphasized that despite international challenges, the country continues to offer stability, peace of mind, and strong plans for key sectors such as Civil Protection.

Dr Abela thanked Civil Protection workers for their dedication and valuable work, noting that they are often among the first responders in emergencies and challenges, both locally and abroad.

He also referred to continued government investment in the corps through additional equipment, specialised vehicles, modern tools, and improvements to stations, ensuring the country is better prepared.

The Prime Minister concluded by saying that this agreement is not only an investment in Civil Protection workers, but part of a broader vision to continue generating economic wealth that translates into better opportunities for Maltese and Gozitan workers.

Minister for Home Affairs, Security and Employment Byron Camilleri said that while these workers are often praised for saving and protecting lives-and rightly so-the Government believes appreciation must be shown not only in words but through concrete action. He added that the aim is always to be in a better position to save and protect, ultimately benefiting Maltese and Gozitan society.

Minister Camilleri stressed that this is why the Government continues to invest in the conditions and rights of these workers.