Prime Minister Robert Abela said that Budget 2027 will be another budget that provides a clear sense of direction and peace of mind, not only to those investing in our country but, above all, to workers, who will continue to see their situation improve and their protection strengthened.
Abela made these remarks during a consultative meeting with representatives of the General Workers' Union at the GWU premises in Valletta, as part of the consultation process in preparation for Budget 2027.
Abela noted that the country is operating within an international context characterised by uncertainty and significant challenges.
He referred to the ongoing international discussions regarding these realities, including at the United Nations General Assembly, as well as the pressures linked to international energy prices.
Despite this international context, Abela maintained that Malta will continue to offer certainty and peace of mind to businesses, which keep investing in our country and creating job opportunities, including quality jobs for Maltese and Gozitan workers.
He said that this sentiment is being felt across various economic sectors and emphasised that job creation has been, and will remain, a top priority for the government.
The Prime Minister explained that a strong labour market also creates the conditions for further progress regarding job quality and working conditions.
He cited, among other things, collective agreements, better wages, and increased opportunities for workers to advance their skills and careers. Abela said that this is achievable because our country possesses an economy and a labour market that are yielding results.
He also referred to the government's continued support regarding energy prices.
Abela said that this ensures ongoing stability for families and businesses while helping to avert adverse effects on the Maltese economy.
The Prime Minister said that, in the face of an international landscape that remains unpredictable, the government will continue to serve as a source of stability and certainty.
Abela concluded by thanking the General Workers' Union for the proposals submitted in preparation for the 2027 Budget, as well as for its ongoing daily efforts to safeguard workers.
Also present at the meeting were Deputy Prime Minister Ian Borg; Ministers Silvio Schembri, Miriam Dalli, Clyde Caruana, Jonathan Attard, Chris Bonett, Jo Etienne Abela, and Keith Azzopardi Tanti; Parliamentary Secretary Alicia Bugeja Said; MP Anthony Agius Decelis; and the Head of the Prime Minister's Secretariat, Mark Mallia.