Updated | UHM, Gozo Channel impasse rearing towards a resolution

The Union Haddiema Maghqudin has suspended its industrial action after an agreement was reached over the financial package of the collective agreement of the workers at Gozo Channel.

The discussions were held over the past few days between the union, the Minister of Finance, the management of Gozo Channel and PACBU (Public Administration Collective Bargaining Unit) CEO Thomas Woods.

Earlier

The Untion Haddiema Maghqudin (UHM) and the Gozo Channel are close to resolving their dispute following a meeting held this morning with Finance Minister Tonio Fenech. A second meeting will take place later this afternoon.

Speaking to MaltaToday, UHM President Jesmond Bonello confirmed that the morning meeting had been "positive", where the management of the Gozo Channel appeared to agree over basic principles.

"We hope that now we'll be able to find an agreement which is best for both sides. There have already been agreements over the working conditions. I don't see why other agreements should not be achieved this evening," Bonello said.

Asked whether the workers will go on strike if an agreement is not reached, Bonello said a meeting would be held with the workers to decide the next step. "However, I am confident that by tonight we'll have an agreement," he reiterated.

On Tuesday, the UHM ordered industrial action by staff and crews at Gozo Channel and warned that the ferry service will be disrupted and possibly stopped. The dispute arose from a disagreement on the financial aspects of a new collective agreement after the previous collective agreement expired in 2008.

So far, the ferry service has not been stopped.

The action generated concern from a number of business associations, including the Gozo Tourism Authority and the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry.

In a statement, the Chamber said it was "very concerned" about the industrial action: "Without going into the merits of the issue, the Malta Chamber urges that a swift solution needs to be found to the current impasse."

The Chamber added that as one of the busiest times of year, the Carnival weekend is a boost to the Gozitan economy.

"Disruption of the Gozo Channel service will only serve to lose much needed business and hurt the economy. Furthermore, within a highly uncertain external environment, we must look for ways to strengthen our competitiveness and growth, rather than allowing internal issues to undermine the economy," it said.

The Chamber augured that a resolution to the satisfaction of both parties is found, for the benefit of all concerned.