Gas distributors meet Prime Minister over 1992 agreement

GRTU today organised a protest outside Castille, in which it presented a letter to the Prime Minister with a number of requests in relation to the liberalisation of gas distribution.

Around 30 distributors were present for the protest, in which the Prime Minister promised a speedy resolution. GRTU representative Joe Attard presented the requests, stating that the union will ensure that "gas distributors livelihoods will not be threatened", and that "no stone would be left unturned" in reaching an agreement.

Around 15 police officers were gathered on the steps of Auberge of Castille to form a barrier between the protestors and the OPM. Police also prevented protesters from displaying banners.

The gas distributors are threatening industrial action unless the Malta Competition and Consumer Affairs Authority decides whether a 1992 agreement to give distributors exclusive rights in specific geographical areas was in breach or not of competition laws.

Describing the meeting with the Prime Minister as positive, Attard said that "should a satisfactory agreement not be reached, the matter will be taken to a tribunal,which will follow the MCCA's recommendations."