Government proposes measures against precarious wok

No government tenders will be awarded to companies subcontracting work to third parties or taking on workers as self-employed instead of employing them.

These are two of the proposals set forward by the government in its fight against precarious work. Speaking at the MCESD meeting Minister Helena Dalli said a number of meetings will be held with the social partners to discuss this issue.

Minister Dalli referred to the Decent Work Agenda of the International Labour Organisation emphasising the need to protect poor and disadvantaged employees. This labour sector should participate and be represented in all fora to ensure its interests are addressed. The government has also strengthened the Department of Industrial and Employment Relations (DIER).

DIER Director Noel Vella, held the government is being more vigilant over the companies awarded tenders and in the execution of work contracted by the government.

The government is proposing that companies awarded government tenders are to register their entire workforce with the ETC. Written contracts should be signed with all those employed, attendance sheets kept and payslips issued with their salaries. Anther proposal says wages are to be paid directly into bank accounts.

The government reserves the right to terminate any contract found to breach these conditions. Companies tendering for government contracts will be subject verifications of their financial declarations concerning wages.

Dr Vella concluded the current administration is striving to update the legal aspect to protect against precarious work and an educational campaign to create public awareness is in the pipeline.