Police Association files judicial letter to allow officers’ right to union

In a judicial letter filed today, the Police Association said Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi and Justice Minister Carm Mifsud Bonnici were denying police officers of their fundamental right to join a union.

The Association urged government to let the police force join a union.

In the letter, the Association said their membership would not conflict with their work, as the union would represent a disciplined workforce with restrictions which would not hinder their job in protecting civilians.

The Association noted that in Europe there are 43 unions which represent the police force and who also form part of the European Trade Unions Council or are members of the European Police Confederation.

It added that while both Government and Opposition have agreed that the Maltese police force should enjoy the right to join a union, they were still dragging their feet to enact such law, whilst both sides of the House failed to consult with the Association.

It also criticised Parliament for not having started the legislative process to amend the law in this regard.

“This is another way by which government is stifling the functions of the Association and hindering it from serving its duties to safeguard the officers’ interests and bring forward their rights in legal parameters.”

The Association added that all this conflicts with the Lisbon Treaty which safeguards the fundamental rights and liberties of an individual, and which also specifies that everyone has the right and liberty to join a peaceful union.