The budget to be presented next Wednesday should revisit Malta’s incomes policy such that the difficulties faced by low income households is addressed.
The minimum wage should be increased in line with the findings of the Caritas Report published in March this year. This report entitled “A Minimum budget for a decent living” had focused on three low income household categories and concluded that it is necessary to uplift the statutory minimum wage from €158.11 to €180 per week of 40 hours. It is unfortunate that both the PN and Labour are deadset against this proposal.
Alternattiva Demokratika realises the importance of such a proposal in assisting those having a low income to make ends meet and has repeatedly encouraged its implementation.
Another proposal on incomes policy is on the table. The General Workers’ Union has proposed that Cost of Living wage adjustments should be made every 6 months. Implementing this proposal would provide a realistic and timely compensation to those at the lower end of the social ladder.
Its about time that these proposals are seriously considered by government in its budget proposals.
originally published in di-ve.com, Friday 23rd November 2012
Blog ta' Carmel Cacopardo 