A new collective agreement has been signed for workers at Engineering Resources Limited, ERL, following a negotiation process that has been ongoing for the past twelve months.
The agreement, which covers the period between 2025 and 2030, will lead to substantial improvements in the working conditions of around 800 ERL workers who provide services to Enemalta and to the International Energy Service Centre, IESC, a subsidiary of Enemalta.
The agreement includes improvements in basic pay, improved overtime rates, improved allowances, as well as better conditions for special family-related leave.
These measures were aimed so that workers' conditions better reflect the needs of today's labour market and the new realities in which ERL workers are operating.
Energy Minister Miriam Dalli said that this agreement is clear confirmation of government's commitment to better working conditions, fairer wages, and proper recognition of workers' skills.
"This collective agreement is a very important step for ERL workers and their families. After a year of serious and constructive negotiations, today we are delivering a concrete result that recognises the contribution, experience, and dedication of these workers," she said.
She added that ERL workers have been and remain an essential part of Enemalta's operations and of energy-related services in our country, but it must also be recognised that many of them have, over the years, adapted to new realities, different workplaces, and new trades.
"This requires flexibility, commitment, and continuous training, and it was therefore appropriate for their conditions to improve significantly," Minister Dalli said.
She added that the agreement also shows how economic growth should translate into direct benefits for workers.
"We want a labour market that is competitive, but also fair; a labour market that attracts and retains skills, while at the same time giving workers dignity and stability. This agreement reflects precisely that balance. It is an investment in people, in their skills, and in the quality of service provided to the country," Dalli added.
General Secretary of the GWU Josef Bugeja said that these negotiations took a long time because, apart from changing the working conditions, wages and allowances were increased, and new allowances were introduced for these workers.
Bugeja said that other issues relating to wages and pensions were also resolved.
"This is where you can see the success of social dialogue between employers and workers, and the role of the GWU in achieving that balance between workers' aspirations and the needs of the job," he said.