Earlier today, General Workers Union (GWU) ordered a bus-strike for tomorrow, after it failed to reached an agreement with the Spanish company that owns the Public Transport in Malta.
GWU claimed that the bus company reduced drivers’ wages and the Union also commented on a reduction in the working hours of the bus drivers.
The strike shall be taking place tomorrow from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m., and from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Pulse’s Reaction
Pulse would like to express its disappointment at the strike which has been just ordered for tomorrow for public transport employees. In particular, Pulse expresses concern at the negative impact this action would have on the thousands of students currently undergoing examinations in Malta and Gozo.
While understanding the reasons for the industrial action, Pulse calls for immediate and urgent discussions between the Government, Malta Public Transport, and the General Workers Union to try to reach an agreement as soon as possible.
In view of the industrial action, Pulse also appeals to the MATSEC department, calling for time extensions to be provided for all exams held for the duration of the strike, in order to ensure the utmost fairness for all students.
Pulse shall also be opening its email account: info@pulsemalta.com for any possible negative repercussions suffered by students due to this strike.
SDM’s Reaction
SDM condemns strike action ordered tomorrow by the GWU especially because of students undergoing MATSEC examinations.
SDM believes that workers’ rights should be respected however this should not happen to the detriment of the civil society, especially those students who do not have alternative means of transport.
SDM is disappointed with the continuous bickering and lack of agreement between the parties leaving the student with no alternative means of transport.
SDM calls on all involved parties to reach an agreement that does not leave a negative impact on students and the general public.