Arnold Cassola: No revision to minimum wage since 1972

Alternattiva Demokratika chairperson Arnold Cassola said it was unacceptable that minimum wage has not been revised since 1972.

During a meeting with activists from Kampanja Paga Minima Dicenti – a new campaign pushing for an increase in the minimum wage – Cassola said that the minimum wage was calculated once in 1972, on assumptions that were valid 44 years ago and has never been revised since.
"The work carried out by Caritas on the issue is commendable. Their study shows how it is impossible to make ends meet on the minimum wage. AD stresses that the minimum wage should be revised periodically,” Cassola said.

“A strong economy at the expense of workers working for poverty wages is not acceptable for us.”

Green party secretary general Ralph Cassar argued that it was false to claim that an increase in the minimum wage would see workers losing their jobs.

"Work that does not pay enough for a decent quality of life means dependence on charity or welfare, and this is certainly not beneficial for the economy,” Cassar said.

“Even from a purely economic point of view, an increase in the minimum wage means more cash in hand for workers with lower wages, who will spend more on essential commodities and services. In a nutshell, an increase in the minimum wage will serve as an economic stimulus.”

Anna Azzopardi, a representative of the green youths, argued that the minimum wage should be reviewed to make it a living wage, giving persons the necessary income for a dignified life.