Alternattiva Demokratika – The Green Party has expressed its concern that the national minimum wage in Malta, €601.90 per month, has ranked 12th lowest in a comparative table of 20 EU countries drawn up by the European Industrial Relations Observatory.

Spokesperson for Social and Economic Development Michael Briguglio said, “The fact that Malta’s minimum wage is low is even more worrying when Malta’s cost of living keeps increasing, resulting in much burdens on workers of various categories and their families. The latest Eurobarometer survey shows that the major concern for Maltese citizens in the cost of living. AD is the only political party which is proposing an increase in the minimum wage, to make up for such burdens. In return, Government can also strive to reduce non-essential non-wage costs to employers. We are also proposing a better methodology to measure cost of living increases as well as tax credits.”

Chairperson Prof Arnold Cassola added, “The cost of living is high on AD’s agenda and we shall give central importance to this issue, alongside others, in our forthcoming budget proposals. The real value of people’s wages is of key importance. We believe that Government can take appropriate measures to ensure that an increase in the minimum wage does not impinge on Malta’s competitiveness. As is the case with other developed societies, Malta can improve its competitiveness through workers’ skills, innovation, adaptability and flexibility. This can result in more productivity, higher wages and more investment.”