1. General Workers’ Union and the Maltese Scenario Mr. Charles Agius National Secretary Metal & Construction Section

2. Malta Smallest state in the European Union Smallest state in the European Union Malta got its independence in 1964 Malta got its independence in 1964 Became a republic in 1974 Became a republic in 1974 It is one of the most densely populated countries in the world It is one of the most densely populated countries in the world According to the 2005 Census the population is of 404,039 According to the 2005 Census the population is of 404,039

3. Economic Situation Inflation rate (2006) is 3.1% Inflation rate (2006) is 3.1% Minimum wage (2006) is of Lm57.90 (€136) per week Minimum wage (2006) is of Lm57.90 (€136) per week Malta’s economy is based on tourism, manufacturing and services (e.g. financial services) Malta’s economy is based on tourism, manufacturing and services (e.g. financial services) Current government is aiming for Malta to become a base for the technology industry Current government is aiming for Malta to become a base for the technology industry

4. Workforce 325,243 are estimated to be over 15 years 325,243 are estimated to be over 15 years 50.6% inactive 50.6% inactive Low female participation rate of only 32.3% Low female participation rate of only 32.3% Unemployed 12,561 or 7.8% Unemployed 12,561 or 7.8%

5. Unions 2 major unions 2 major unions GWU is the biggest one GWU is the biggest one Represents the interests of 55% of the total organised work force Represents the interests of 55% of the total organised work force 67-70% of the total labour force is unionised 67-70% of the total labour force is unionised

6. Construction Sector 10,548 workers in the construction sector 10,548 workers in the construction sector Not many of these are unionised Not many of these are unionised Low working conditions Low working conditions Most of them work illegally Most of them work illegally Employ many foreigners Employ many foreigners GWU still tries to organise these workers GWU still tries to organise these workers