Updated: Demonstration moved to Friday, all unions to take part

electricty and gas prices going or are Up or not.
we do not know yet.
what %%% .
imagin selling something to the gov and later when you wish send him the bill..
Can We do This..Plaese.
How much will bread cost... remember they use
gas and electricty.
flour in the open market.
How much will you wife pay for ..
frozen food
dairy porducts
adding the agents new cost
shops cost
don not complain now
COMPLAIN LATER.
when in 2009 YOU will not AFFORD to LIVE.
you might be without a JOB TOO.
So Just sit DOWN and DO nothing...
Be MALTESE...
in the EU they Complain when they think THEY SHOULD.
CAN WE..

@ Amanda Mallia

I agree with you.

I do not want to subsidize other people who waste.

However there is one big problem called Enemalta

The prices are so high because there is inefficiency in Enemalta and I am not ready to keep on subsidizing them any longer.

Also there is an abuse from most of those 30000 family who do not pay surcharge and use as much electricity as they like, because I am the one who pays with other tax payers

So first the government should solve these problems, and then I agree that prices should reflect reality.

@MA Fenech. Re 1996-1998. Under Labour Government. Alfred Sant tried to take care of the inefficiencies of Enemalta. He increased to tariffs to 25%, but due to the preceding advisors being kept in their office by the Prime Minister, either through malintent or erroneous calculations brought the tariffs to 200%. Which the Unions didn't like. The tariffs were never distributed to the public. At that time there were no oil crises, and the economy was doing well, although the deficit was high. But the economy would have survived. But today the economy is facing a crisis, and the present government, is going against the odds, and instead of leaving money in the people's pockets, is taxing them more! Other countries are trying their utmost to leave as much money in the people's pockets as much as possible. But here in Malta, we think of winning the next election, not of passing through the crisis unscathed.

Amanda Mallia ....talking about Tax Evade...how about the lawyers and doctors and the business men paying their dues......or is it different from paying subsidies on W&E for our Hotels and Factories........

@ J Farrugia
Inti stess qieghed tghid illi f'pajjizi ohra, kumpaniji kbar qeghdin ikeccu n-nies minhabba s-sitwazzjoni internazzjonali. Veru. Ghalhekk huwa d-dmir tal-gvern biex ma jghabbix iktar lill-kumpaniji li jhaddmu n-nies (kif ukoll lic-cittadin) b'tariffi esagerati li jistghu aktar ihallu impatt negattiv fl-ekonomija lokali u minhabba f'hekk jaghtu s-sensji lill-haddiema. Li twahhal fil-unions li jekk jorganizzaw dimostrazzjoni se tirrizulta li jkeccu n-nies, jew biex iwaqqghu l-gvern, huma ragunamenti bla bazi. L-iskop tad-dimostrazzjonijiet huwa biex FORSI l-gvern jigi ftit f'sensih u jara dak li qed ihoss kulhadd. Il-gvern jinteressah biex isolvi l-problemi tal-pajjiz (u qed jinheba taht l-iskuza tal-problemi internazzjonali), pero' ma jinteressahx mill-problemi li qed jiffacjaw l-familji.

I can understand why the Unions preferred to go it alone. It is their right if they want to stay out of more fundamental ideologies. It is therefore more heartening to see them all together expressing the will of the workers whether these are blue or white collar. Everybody must face the fact that the great majority of the Maltese are workers and that their wages/salaries have to be taken into account all the time. More so the pensioners, who are retired workers. I do not mean to dismiss entrepreneurs, particularly small entrepreneurs. Their incomes too must be taken into consideration. Apart from this, it must be kept in mind that their incomes depend on the way the wages/ salaries of the workers/consumers (i.e. the majority of the Maltese) are faring. One hopes the Unions will stay together through thick and thin, not only on this (historic) occasion but in the coming months as well.

can anyone tell me here who is right and who is wrong? MLP is saying one thing, PN is saying another... When will this nation of fools grow up and tell us the real, WHOLE, picture for once..

All I know is that the tariffs have gone up drastically but the reason behind it... Sorry I'm completely lost.. Some here seem to be harking back to 1996-1998 where the same thing seemed to have happened... Is it a question of history repeating itself or what? Can anyone WHO IS NOT PARTISAN PLEASE explain?

The main argument here of those who are not opposing the tariff change seems to be that we are actually paying for the subsidies from our taxes already. This is completely true and that is why subsidies , eventually, need to be removed!! But let us not forget that subsidies were put there by various, past governments (PN included) to cushion the effect on each and every one of us and the companies, hotels and factories which employ us!!

So what should we do?? Remove the subsidy/capping completely and with a flick of a finger increase the costs for ST Micros with 3 MILLION EUROS!!?? And then if ST decides to close down because this would be the straw which breaks the camel's back what would 3,000+ workers earning a decent wage do??

What should Hotels do?? Increase their prices?? They can't!! Reduce their service?? They can't!! Reduce the workers?? aaaa this they can!!!

Subsidies should go but only in an orderly and organised way so as not to cause unnecessary shocks to the economy!!

This is not the way it is being done!! That is why the govt. is on the wrong side of the fence!!

Joe Galea / V., Micallef - (CORRECTION)
Maybe it's about time you realised that the world is not full of freebies. Who do you think will be paying for the subsidies on W&E rates? Taxpayers, of course. As a taxpayer myself, I would rather pay for what I consume than subsidize the people who choose to avoid / evade tax, thank you.

TO WHOME IT MAY CONCERN AT G R T U .
shame on you.... that you decide to not be part of this historic agreement.
i will tell you this in malthese Mr vince farrugia.
MELA MA GHADEKX TGHIDLU BUFUNATA IL BUDGET TA DIN IS SENA ???
FINALLY WE KNOW YOUR MASK MR FARRUGIA.

the prime minister has said last week it is a theatrical, protesting in the streets,he was refering for the manifestation of the MLP.I ask him is this also a theatrical all the mcsd is going to organise next Friday?.By the way a theatrical who 8 months ago has promised many nice things and is doing all the opposite and knows how was the situation of the country because Gonzipn was governing the country.

Brendon Cassar - Well said.

Joe Galea / V., Micallef -
Maybe it's about time you realised that the world is not full of freebies. Who do you think will be paying for the subsidies on W&E rates? Taxpayers, of course. As a taxpayer myself, I would rather pay for what I consume that subsidize the people who chose to avoid / evade tax, thank you.

@J.Farrugia
Bl-argument tieghek irridu noqghodu ghall dak kollu li jghid il gvern allura! Inhalluh jghaddi min fuqna qisu romblu tat tarmak u jghaffigna iktar m'ahna qeghdin sew! It Toly sa fejn naf jien gighmatejn ilu taw is sensji u mhux ghax in nies ghamlu strike imma ghax m'ghandhomx xoghol! Veru li strikes ma jgibux hobz imma li strikes forsi idahhlu naqra sens f'mohh dan il gvern li halef li jkisser il haddiem! Tiftakruh lil Austin jghamel l imhatri li ma jibqax fabbrika wahda hawn malta! Meta jirbah il flus flok immorru quddiem il bieb tal GWU immorru quddiem biebu ha jqassmilna il flus li jkun rebah! U hallina J Farrugia! Il unions kollha kontra il gvern ta fuq din l issue mhux il GWU biss! Tidher x'kulur tara mill kummenti tieghek! Tidher kuntent thallas, jekk tista taffordja ahjar ghalik! Il maggoranza tal maltin ma jistawx b' hekk sejrin id dimostrazzjoni!

@V.Farrugia
I totally agree with you regarding the dole bums, but if the govt should start somewhere shouldn't it start from the govt. there is a saying charity begins@home. Plus do you really think we are in this situation because of the subsidies? We are in this situation because the govt. when he had it good went on an uncontrolled spending spree u issa lanqas baqghalu sold fuq xix jahlef! Even the ants are more intelligent than this govt. because they work throughout summer to have food through the winter! Govt. should have followed suit and not spend as much as he liked and now bil wicc tost kollu he wants us to pay for his incompetence. If he cannot lead he should resign! Prosit to all the unions at last a step in the right direction. Keep up the good work and keep united!

@J Farrugia

Everybody must support this union in this difficult and drastic time for us. We cannot afford to pay such high tariffs for water and electricity. Currently with our wages my family and I are striving to live with the 95%Surcharge. Well done to all the unions taking part in the protest. We must struggle so that the government will revise his new tarrifs.

Joe Galea
@Amanda Mallia & Co.: you should organise a demonstration in favour of the budget. Since you are happy to pay higher prices on everything, you should consult your Gonzi to voluntarily pay higher bills and higher prices on everything.
THAT'S A GOOD ONE, JOE!

Could someone answer a simple question? If X tonnes of oil are bought at $112 a barrel and the price of oil until the $112 per barrel is consumed fluctuates lets say to an average of $80 per barrel, what would be the cost per barrel of the oil stored?

Now lets say we consume the $112 per barrel and we do not restock and wait until the price drops to lower than $90 per barrel, is everyone ready to wait (without power) until the market value is as desired?

Would it be best to pay the average on the predicted prices (that are always spot on) instead of paying a low amount today for power and excessive (more than what was announced in the budget) amount tomorrow? Look at things in the long run.
Does everyone spend all his/her wages all at once or do you save money thinking of tomorrow? This is what is happening with the new tariffs today, thinking about next year when due to the current economic crisis that the world is in (including Malta) the reserves will be low but we will have enough in reserve to go ahead when everyone else is struggling.

Bil-protesti ser nirbhu xi haga!!! Imbaghad duru fuq tal-unions u tal-MLP biex jimpjegaw lil dawk kollha li jistghu jigu ssensjati, maghhom. Ghax bil-protesti u d-dimostrazzjonijiet ser ingibu l-hobz. Ghax ma jghidux il-verita' li tridu twaqqghu minghalikom lill-Gvern. Araw xinhu jigri fl-Italja, fl-Amerika, fl-ewropa kollha. Sensji bhal pastizzi: bl-eluf. u minn ma kumpaniji sodi. Il-Gappun l-esportazzjoni naqset b'49%. Il-Gappun dan u jigi toni zarb jikkumiedja bil-protesti. Halluna. Ara ma jigrilniex bhal Alitalia ghax war al-bieb tal-GWU immorru.

Amanda Mallia ....one question for you.....would you have wrote the same was there a labour government.... do you remember the year 1998...when Dr.Sant wanted to raise the electricity bills...remember the same government we have today, what they said.....yes you have a very short memory

@Ray Gatt....This is a different scenario to 1996. In 1996, the GWU did not agree with Sant's tariffs, however, like UHM a couple of days ago, the GWU decided that round the table talks would prove to be more conducive.

As a matter of fact, the Labour Government did NOT apply the new tariffs, and never did stop discussions.

Today, the situation is different. We have new tariffs, and the Government has stated that this issue is over and is refusing to negotiate the new tariffs to be paid with arrears!. I trust that you can see the difference.

As for the strikes, I was a Maltapost employee in 1996, and yes, the GWU did order a strike a few months after the election.

As for reference to 80's violence, this just goes to show that you have major problems with this new alliance and are trying to deviate from the subject.
I find that totally besides the point, and will not comment on the matter.

ACamilleri: Stop believing NET tv.

The UHM has had an invitation from the GWU a week ago.

The date was only changed, according to Gejtu Vella, because he would have been abroad on Thursday.

2/2 As for that commenter who suggested that we live in a cave, I'm sorry, but if you don't afford luxuries go back to basics. I'm not a skinflint, but I understand basic economy enough to know, that: 1. No one owes me a living, 2. I have to maintain myself as best I can, to the best of my earning abilities. 3. Sorry, but not everyone deserves all the luxuries in life, work hard for them, and you get them; it's not fair that dole-bums have all the luxuries that we, the hard-working middle class can only dream of affording. The government should assist them enough to SURVIVE not to live off comfortably. If they want to live comfortably, well, they'd better get off their pretty bums and get a job!

If you can't afford waste, go back to basics! But don't expect the rest of us to pay off your excesses.

Joe Galea: My name is Vanessa, not Vince, I use my initial for expediency's sake.

To the rest: Yes, I was around before, and I was paying the subsidy for everything else. No, I don't like subsidizing the free mobiles, the free flights, all the perks that MP's do, BUT I realize that if subsidies must be cut, the government must start somewhere. Of course, it would have been far better had Enemalta done some proper housekeeping, and saw to it's considerable losses BEFORE the budget. Then again, I cannot see why out of 70,000 families, 40,000 of them have to subsidise the electricity for those 30,000 families who DON'T pay the surcharge, DON'T pay the meter rents, and pay a pittance for what they consume, when most of them are running multiple air-conditioning units inside their homes.

No, I do not have air-conditioning at home, call me lucky, but my groundfloor maisonette doesn't get that hot in summer, and if I shelter my apertures from the sunlight, and let 2 opposing apertures open, most days I have a nice fresh breeze coming in. When it's still a fan will do it's job pretty well, and very cheaply. 1/2

There was a year in between 1996/1998 and after Dr. Sant's W & E proposals that The GWU did have a dispute in fact it did not take part in the first of May celebrations with the MLP.

WELL DONE MR. TONY ZARB.... Finally we have made a FIRST GIANT STEP in the right direction, and i hope that this UNITY remains there forever in great interest of ALL the Maltese and Gozitan Workers of all walks of life, irrispective of the government of the day....

HATS OFF TO ALL THE UNIONS, POLITICAL PARTIES, N.G.O.`s etc. WHO ARE TAKING PART IN NEXT FRIDAY`S DEMONSTRATION IN VALLETTA...and as for those who would not take part.... SHAME ON YOU ALL.....

NIFTAKRU..... FEJN HEMM LAGHQDA, HEMM IS-SAHHA... GHAX MIN IKUN IRID ISALTAN U JDGHAJJEF IZ-ZGHIR, DAN IKUN JAQBILLU L-FIRDA....

Karl Abela...you have a very short memory as you seem to forget the 1998....when labour was in government...........you were not wiser then.....yes fully agree with you we all should use our brains, like we should have done in the ELECTION...........and nor are the GonziPN paying for my bills now.....and if you know for certainty that the oil is going to hit the roof...please please tell gonzi and gatt that, so we don't have to pay much more then what we are paying today...........

@Amanda Mallia & Co.: you should organise a demonstration in favour of the budget. Since you are happy to pay higher prices on everything, you should consult your Gonzi to voluntarily pay higher bills and higher prices on everything.
@G Mangion: So you are already sure that in 5 years time we will have a change in government. So you admit that this government is a continuous failure.
@G Grima: Your analogy of Lemmings should be attributed to staunch people like you with no reasoning. You just see blue and it's darker shades only. Other than that it's a sin.

This is a historic moment and hope such agreements continue for the sake of all the workers.
I don't know if i can attend the protest as I am sick in bed but hope that all those who can attend will make sure they do so. This is not for the unions but for the people in general. We badly need to shake the administarion. Hope the PM won't say that all this is theatrical !!!

John Borg....you don't get it do you.........what you wrote has nothing to do with it.........the oil went down even today it went further down......you must be a true BLUE.......as you are the only one seeing things from a different angle........

For once I feel proud to be Maltese. There is hope for this country. It had to come to this for us to show we can put our partisan bickering aside and work together to hold politicians accountable. We play their game by being partisan. We are the people. They are the politicians.

Amanda Mallia.
And the taxes on fuel? Are we subsidizing those too? Where is the revenue from fuel tax going? Oh I forgot, our government is so transparent he tells us everything. Including the truth about Enemalta's efficiency.

At last the UHM and its allied members wake up to themselves and joined the biggest union in this country and protest in the streets as show of force that all unions are united for the coming battles against this right wing government as the order of the day is to increase taxes and hidden tariffs to cover for debits that had been created as follows
Luxury cars- tours around global - state lunches and dinners for friends - Malta House in overseas missions - etc.

DEFINITION OF CONSISTENCY AND INCONSISTENCY

CONSISTENCY - When a Union takes action whenever is needed and independent of who is in power ! (The CMTU and the UHM can both boast of being the largest trade Union in Malta who protested under ALL governments).

INCONSISTENCY - When a Union takes action according to who is in power! (The GWU only takes action when there is only one particular party in power. You may recall that some 10 years ago, when the CMTU organised a similar protest, the GWU refused to take part (even after months passed) claiming that it was preparing a report - Funnily this time, there were no needs for reports).

PROSIT LIL CMTU u UHM! You are the only truly independent and consistent Union. You should be proud of being the only tradeunionistic movement which takes action whoever is in power. The 'other' union makes reports under one party and strikes under the other - Inconsistent!

Mr. Karl Abela, your questions cannot be answered by a simple yes or no! Paying such hefty tariffs now when the oil index is low, leaves me wondering and speechless as to what these tariffs will be like IF and when oil will be at “180 dollars per barrel”.

What exactly is behind certain individuals' contributions? Whether one is prepared to accept it or not, this budget will be lowering our standard of living. In their heart of heart, everybody knows this.

Keep up your good work Unions. Fejn hemm l-ghaqda hemm is-sahha!

@ Jeremy J Camilleri - We all know GWU is partisan. When A. Sant came out with his W & E bills and his then budget which was called anti social by Mr. Mintoff when oil was 12 USD a barrel, the GWU decided that it would study the impact on the workers by this budget. Not only the GWU did not go down in the streets and protest, but after nine months he was still studying and deliberating the budget of the previous year. Eventually, he got of the hook when Sant had to order an early election after 22 months in power. And all you Labour apologists have the audacity to call GWU decent. I've known UHM to strike when PN in govt. Can you labour apologists say the same about the GWU when MLP was in power?

We all have a right to protest as long as it's done in an orderly manner. A right which was taken away from us by a dictatorial labour govt. in the 70ies and 80ies, and restored by PN after 1987.

Are you sure the unions are united ? Do all trust the GWU ? I doubt if events will take place as planned next Friday.

@ Jeremy Camilleri

Just for correctness sake..... It was the UHM who managed to bring all parties together, not the GWU... Let's give due to who merits due! But now let's forget who have done this and who have done not!

I think that all those who till yesterday morning shouted abuse against Gejtu Vella and UHM should now ask for an apology... Hekk titlob l-irgulija! The UHM gave you an answer as to what it was doing in the meantime, without playing the prima donna!!!

See you all on Friday!

Prosit Unions - Flimkien kollox possibli !!!!!!

Part 2: @ V Farrugia: The problem is that we are paying much more on everything, just to make up for the incompetence along all those 20 years of PN. One has to bear in mind that the proposed utility tariffs will have a ripple effect on everything. Prices of all products and services will go up to make up for it. And our salaries remain low.
Also the government should lead by example, instead like Gatt buying a (tax-payer paid) jaguar, he should have bought a hybrid car and the other ministers and MP's should do the same. All govt. depts. and hospitals chould be upgraded with solar /photvoltaic panels. The hospital by itself is an energy waster. Al that roof space should have been used for such purpose. Give eco incentives for people to change for cleaner , smaller cars. Improve public transport. Take in consideration what Labour proposed. and much much more.!!
There are many ways how to go about it with the least financial burden on the ciizen who is already squeezed to the bone.

Thanks to the PN this can happen..thanks PN for the freedom. Altough we will protest against the government he respects our freedom....that wasn't 20 years ago....lets remember this too

@Karl Abela: Re-oil price hike again in 2009, that's why Enemalta should work hard to get some form of hedging agreement at the current price. Also why don't we keep the current surcharge system and adjust the surcharge according to oil price? The funny thing is that when the oil was over $150 the surcharge was 55% or so, when the oil went down below the $100, the surcharge was 95%. If a fair system is found I think no one would complain. Re-education: MLP is already doing so if you don't know. On sunday's protest very informative leaflets on how to save energy were distributed and more educational initiatives are in the pipe line.
@V Farrugia: Dear Vince, let me tell u my case. I do try to save energy as much as possible. I changed all bulbs to energy savings, wash on cold temp., iron clothes only, switch off where is not needed, etc. I still keep receiving exorbitant bills. My salary remained the same, etc.

@Karl Abela...

Thank God I am not the only one that thinks the way u do!!!!

Well said Karl...nothing 2 add!!!!

As it stands with the cost of solar heaters and PV systems it is not worth investing even with the current grants. By the time you will start to recover your costs the system will start loosing performance and servicing is a must.

Mind you I congratulate the government for the schemes announced in the budget but still i feel that if alternative energy is made more viable medium income families would seriously consider it. Another issue is the cost of the meter for connecting the PV system to the grid, these should be waivered and the tariff per unit revised until the cost of the meter is recovered, this way the initial cost for a PV system connected to the grid would be between Euro40 ro 100 less.

I congratulate the government for the schemes but either more aid is given to the people to invest in this type of system or else I am afraid that it will not work.

In the mean time since i cannot afford the intitial investment (and hopefully someday I will) i am finding alternate ways to save on energy whilst still living a comfortable life.

flimkien kollox possibli

I fully agree with V.Farrugia. If you waste you pay. Personally I am already starting to think about electricity, something I never used to do before. For example what geyser is the best Solar or conventional, how can i maximise lighting in a room using the lowest possible ammount of watts. how can I optimise the washing machines load. These are but a few of the things that someone can do. We need eco houses, and eco house are not ones that just generate their own power but there are many other factors to consider.

Honestly I would like to see more incentives in the alternative energy field cause as it stands it is still not worth the investment to buy lets say a 180litre (for 4 persons) solar water heater (tube type) as the costs would not be recovered before 5 years are elapsed and by that time you have the yearly servicing which costs about Euro 40 and after 5 years you will have to service some componants especially considering the maltese water (with all its chemicals) at high temperature not even stainless steel can stand it.

let us see now ifthis is also a farce like the MLP Manifestation was described by someone up there

Tghid jerga johrog jghid il-gvern li l-unions qed jipprotestaw 11 -il sena tard? Min haseb li l-protesti huma xi teatrin ma jafx fejn hu l-polz ta' poplu mkasbar. Prosit unions.

SOME FOOD FOR THOUGHT.
*The best way to show our appreciation to the courageous move by all the workers unions is for more workers to join as members. Let all of us passive semi-egoistic workers join the union....any union we deem honest and straightforward.
*Those who are claiming that this protest is to ask the government to keep subsidising energy wastage, is bending the reality. This move is against government arrogance. There are several ways and means to punish excess energy waste. AD's electoral program mentioned differentiated rates for water and electricity according to consumption levels. This is just as a starter. All the other social partners have their own suggestions. All that GonziPN's men need to do is to listen, consult and then yes...decide.
*Let this new workers' movement last long. All the unions have their own charismas and interests, but when it comes to certain issues let them unite in one voice....now and forever...whomever the government may be. This is Solidarity at its best. ---Solidarnoch---
Karol Woytila must be smiling somewhere up there.

It is true subsidies are coming from our taxes, thus by any argument we should be paying less taxes since the subsidy is being removed.

Thats only fair....

Yes we can. Yes we can. At last the unions made a historic move. People have to understand it is the government who is going against his electoral promises. The financial crisis is not something that happened out of the blue. The Enemalta financial problems didn’t come about in these last years. If one read the PN program in it one finds what they said about the financial crisis but still they put a number of financial promises to the people. They even promised to continue subsidy electricity when the price of oil was over 100 dollar barrel. So Mr. Prim Minister don’t try to take us for a ride.
We are the people and yes we can protest against your anti social measures.

@ V Farrugia

Everything is paid for from our taxes, including needless free mobiles, cars, fuel, Jaguars, the list is endless. Somehow money is always found for such extravangancies. The electricity subsidy was one of the few items ordinary non blue-eyed tax paying citizens were benefiting from. Yes it could not go on for ever, however if a branch las been left to grow in the wrong direction for a very long time, putting suden enormours pressure on it to correct it would only manage to break it. On the contrary gentle pressure over time will be successful without inflicting too much pain.

I bet that, like me, your were using these or similar arguments in 1998 regarding Dr. Sant's tarrifs. Now how's that for consistency.

I quote"If you can't pay don't use". What a brilliant statement. You're not, by any chance preparing the ground for justifying co-payment in health care, are you?

This is major. This has to be very important But will all this protesting contribute anything to the Maltese economy. Stop work means no production. ALL this means that Malta will loose much more than what the protest can gain for a whole year. Any way have it your way. If we have to loose our job might as well do it while protesting.

Still I do not think that the government will do anything about this.. Its seems that the government cares less now a days what the people think and is working only with the calculator! Hmm we had someone working like that some time ago and he did not last 2 years in the government…

When I read this article, I had to laugh. Malta must be unique in the world that in the face of global recession, financial meltdown, energy bills more than doubling etc....yet in Malta the Unions are 'united' in a demo against the government's tariffs and the withdrawal of subsidised energy! No other country in the world has experienced this! Like every government and energy company, airline and or other business, we have all had to buy oil when prices soared to over $100 and even up to $150, so unfortunately we are stuck with high energy prices until we use up this stock. Here in the UK, our energy bills increased by 47% last January and another 33% last June.....we are all waiting anxiously for our first gas bills! The Maltese people, including the unions, should do what every self-respecting, free and democratic country in the world aims to achieve: remove subsidies and instill competition. Subsidies are a waste of resource and a waste of taxpayers money - they achieve inefficiency and lack of investment. Sadly, I tend to think that the Maltese psyche expects everything for nothing, particularly from the Government.

@PN Apologists. You'll soon be paying the hefty w&e bills too. Take off your blue blinkers and join us.

@all. This is a memorable day in the History of Maltese Trade Unionism. This is truly a first. May this be the first of many to come in the fight for survival. Because this is a fight for survival of the Maltese Nation. For the first time, the Maltese of all shades are truly united.

@All Maltese. Make next Friday the most important historical event of the century. It is up to us to make this happen. We can't let the government trample us with the monstrous tariffs. If these were ordinary times, I wouldn't grumble, but these are not ordinary times.

Government Watch Out! Divide et Regnat is OVER!!!!!

Hehh.... Can't believe this is happening....no politics being involved!!!!

Well done anyway.... the government should give us a public holiday for this achievement, HISTORICAL DAY FOR MALTA

Finally, our Unions acting as Unions. well done. keep your members interests ALWAYS in your minds. come what may, stop the government's arrogance. He's alone on this issue.

Well done to all the Unions. It's a clear sign that when all bodies join together towards a common front, a far better result is obtained. Let's all hope that this is just the beginning towards a new style of passing on concerns. It's very true Dr. Gonzi, you taught us that 'flimkien kollox possibli'. Now all unions i.e. all the MALTESE and GOZITANS are yelling at you to STOP! Well done.

Historic !!! ALL would be joing forces ??? GRTU not part of protest ?

Why does this protest/demonstration remind me of Lemmings leaping off a cliff or ostriches collectively digging in their heads in the sand? Mass suicides does not mean that suicide is a correct answer. Or are the unions thinking that Malta is now an Island immune from foreign financial economic storms? No one likes paying excessive bills but most of us are not too shortsighted not to realize that the current economic difficulties are not Malta's fault. Thank God that at least we have a sane far sighted government that took all the right decisions and prepapred us for the coming storms. Ask Iceland what it thinks about taking Joseph's Muscat opinion re EU membership. Or does anyone think that with a labour govt we would be wallowing in money saved from our fuel bills?

@ Karl Abela
I don't know Karl's Abela age or status. But i don't think that he pays the water and electricity bills himself and he don't really know what the new burden will be on all of us. He would not speak like that if he knows what being a bread winner means especially when being a normal worker.

@ Karl Abela
i don't care what the problem is.i am a normal citizen like many and most probably like you.
so lets the mr.gonzipn solve the problem.
all i really care is that i have two children at home and a wife.... and with these CRAZY TARIFFS AND NEW STUPID TAXES is putting us and many other in poverty.
we should have THE FINANZI FIS SOD.....and we suppost LI B GONZI MOHHOK MISTRIEH.
no my friends is not like that gonzi pn LIE to us !!!!!!!

WELL DONE TO ALL THE UNIONS. THIS IS A HISTORICAL MOMENT FOR MALTESE TRADE UNIONISM ANDMALTESE POLITICS. WITH ALL RESPECT,ARROGANCE IS IN ITS PEAK NOWADAYS!!. IM REALLY FED UP ABOUT THIS. I WOULD LIKE TO SAY THAT JOSEPH MUSCAT IMPRESSED ME WITH HIS BUDGET REPLY. HE WAS ABSULATELY GREAT!. HE SHOW WHAT HE BELEIVES IN... NOT ONLY CRITISIZE BUT PROPOSALS TOO. WELL DONE JOSEPH YOU SURPRISED MANY EVEN BIG PN SUPPORTERS AND I KNOW WHAT IM SAYING!

V Farrugia
As if with the tariffs we are paying we can waste electricity and water. As to ironing etc, why don't you tell us to go and live in caves?

Karl Abela
Still trying to defend your Gonzipn against all the Unions now are you?

J Farrugia
Il-pulcinellati tan-nisa puliti jipprotestaw bil-vazijiet fuq rashom insejtom?

A Camilleri
Congratulations to Gejtu for seeing the light

John Borg
Since you seem so well-to-do, why don't you volunteer to pay some of the bills for those who cannot afford to pay them? So all the governments of the world who are taking measure to put money into people's hands are wrong and your Gonzipn government is the only wise one is it?

ivan scicluna
What's wrong with political parties showing their official support to the underdogs?

Anthony Briffa "Maybe if a social pact was in place, we would not be in the situation we are inow in." Do you believe it?

V Farrugia..You refuse to subsidise? You have been subsidising for the past number of years...So where were you then?

As for subsidies, in case you ahdn't noticed, certain subsidies will still remain, so, you have been subsiding for some time, and will continue to do so, even AFTER the new tariffs are in place.

united we stand ,divided we fall

Well done to all Unions!! Prosit GWU talli rnexxielhom jghaqdu flimkien lil kulhadd. Prosit lil Unions l'ohra tall accetaw.

Austin - nispera li qed tismgha!! Gonzi Nispera li qed tara!!

Well done to all the unions. So Joe and Tony are right. The prime minister is doing his utmost to defend Austin's and tonio Fenech actions. Par idejn sodi should act more courageously. Get on with it man. Lay off these two ministers (thousands were laid off in the manufacturing sector and the MSL, so why care about two ministers) Let other backbenchers show their potential as ministers. BTY accountants have put the world in this financial crisis!

Shame on NET TV how this news was reported on NET news!! According to NET news, the GWU cancelled the demonstration for next Thursday. Then it was the UHM who arranged everything for Friday. I'm not saying that the UHM did not make it's effort for such a historic occasion, but certainly it was a joint effort from all unions concerned to joint forces together with the GWU. Surely the GWU did not cancel this activity. Such reporting surely makes NET news less credible.

A big sigh of relief at last....this is a breath of fresh air for our country. The participation of AD and MLP means the representing of the ABSOLUTE MAJORITY OF THE MALTESE ELECTORATE...please all you government apologists just be quiet....

i wish to congrulate all the unions for this national activity against the arrogance of gatt+gonzipn! i demand the resignation of minister gatt.

Carmel Vella"Well done all Unions. Although I have my doubts if the govt budge. However it will do so at its' peril."

So what you are aiming at is for the govt to remain in place?

When,Dr.Gonzi was interviewed by The Sunday Times of last Sunday and asked about the manifestation, he answered with ‘ Once again, it's an example of irresponsibility at a time when this country needs serious, mature politics. We are once again faced by theatrics which won't get us anywhere. I will let the Maltese people decide whether this manifestation will solve the issue of energy and competitiveness, or whether it's a waste of time.’

What he now think on this similar manifestation ?

Can he now say ‘ irresponsibility?

Can we ask about his word, like ‘ theatrics ‘ about this ?

Can he think whether it's a waste of time ?

Dr.Gonzi will be in history now,as all the unions in Malta joined forces to protest against a particular issue. This was described by all unions as an historic moment.

..............and yes just in case you were wondering I am soooo going to the protest!!!

@ All Pn bloggers ---------As a Nationalist like you I cannot believe that you find the way the bills were introduced as acceptable for the following reasons

1) The govt. didn't even bother with drawing a Social Impact Assesment up....why?? Misthija!!
2) The govt. didn't consult the Unions...it imposed on them and ignored them! Misthija!!
3) The govt. wants to remove subsidies! Ok!! good!! It woke up, got its calaulator out, divided the expenses and threw the burden on everyone!! Misthija!!!
4) The bills were introduced retroactively, so companies didn't even know they were paying four times as much in the first three weeks of October!! Misthija!!!
5) The bills will go up between 9 and 7 euros a week for a family of 4 and some will see their meter explode by 300 euros!!! Misthija!!!
6) While the bills were retroactive we still don't know when we'll get our hand on some kind of proper relief!! Misthija
7) petrol and diesel prices were down 10% for Enemalta but went up for us!! Misthija

come on!! Be honest with yourselves!! Doesn't cost much!!! TARIFFI TAL-MISTHIJA!!!!!!!!!!
POLITIKA TAL-CALCULATOR!!!!!!!!!!!

Well done to all, This is a historic achievement by the social partners. May this co-operation lingers on for the good of the country. Even though I criticised Gejtu Vella of UHM, I now shall not hesitate to praise him for putting the interests of the workers and us citizens before those of political party politics. This is a new chapter for MALTA and may all political parties start to reckon with a common front and not take us citizens for granted. ONLY NOW, can I start saying that I am proud to be MALTESE. This historic and heroic act by all concerned shows that at long last we have arrived to a stage of maturity. May it prevail for many years to come, notwithstanding whoever is at the helm of this country. Autonomy, and political sympathies should never be strange bedfellows by social partners. Hurray. God bless you all. This heroic and historic deed will deliver us from the otherwise stale stalemate we have been compelled to endure for many decades of boredom.

@V Farrugia
I agree that such subsidies are wrong. However, it is not fair that we are also being made to pay for the inefficiencies in EneMalta in such an arrogant manner. Gov should first of all started by saying that there is going to be a serious restructuring in this corporation while at the same time phasing out these subsidies. Gov and all those involved knew for ages about this situation, however they chose only now to deal with it. And their choice of timing and implementation is totally wrong. One has to keep in mind that Gov is also trying to show that he is attempting to solve other problems related to environment, more due to pressure from EU then otherwise. However here again it is failing to address the real problems and only presenting a very poor attempt at extortioning further money from our pockets. In my opinion Gov has lost credibility apart from creativity and the notion of social welfare. Sar gvern antik u xih, and usually at such times ppl tend to retire to some peacefull old persons' home.

Well done to the General Workers Union and to the rest of the trade unions.

It is a move in the right direction.

"YES WE CAN!!"

This shows that when there is the will there is a way. The important thing is that all unions are agreeing that the rates of tariffs imposed by an arrogant government are affecting at the base of the unions, the workers. The GWU was the mover in all this now there is nothing wrong that the UHM followed and agreed with the GWU that the only way with this government is the streets. Now the next move is a show of force. Workers young and old, the pensioners, all people red, blue and green with their families, if they really believe in the burden they are going to carry due to irresponsible decisions are to be at Valletta on Friday. This is the beginning.

Lets make a small survey how many of You are going to be present on friday?

Well done to all social partners. Someone need to stop this 'know it all', arrogant government.

This is history in the making, now I am proud to be Maltese. All the Unions are now showing us that they truly care for their members. From now on may it always be like that no matter who is in Government.

This is truly positive for Maltese trade unionism usually characterized by fragments influenced by different political traditions. Hope that this phenomenon will lead the unions to found a confederation in which all the unions are represented. This will counterbalance the union between the FOI and the Chamber of Commerce.

Those who are so keen to justify this price-hike in water and electricity bills will surely be not so eager to pay their next bills. The tiniest of lines divide arguments meant to justify one's favorite political party and arguments which are irrational in their essence.

V.Farrugia - the price rise in the meters' rent surely uncovers that this is a revenue increasing exercise for the govt, rather than a polluters pay instigated policy.

First you try to blame it on the price of oil, and the people get to know that the price is on a decrease. Then try to blame it on Enemalta when the people know that Enemalta is a corporation led by you for these last two decades. Then try to ridicule those dissenting, and you'll get them more united than ever. Well done trade-unions!

Well done to all the unions involved. The next step would be to create a trade union council. Creating a TUC couldn't come at a better time, given what we Maltese will be going through in the near future.

Did it have to take that long for all the unions to unite? Did we have to come to this extreme where some our families are threatened of living from hand to mouth whilst others are struggling to make both ends meet, as a consequence of the burdens this antisocial PN government has put on us all? But as they say better late than never!! It is time for us all to draw the line and say to the Nationalist government make way if you are not able to govern this country. This crisis is all your doing, spending public funds defectively brought us to this situation nothing else.

Astonishingly enough, Karl Abela and the other Blues still choose to attack Dr.Muscat and apologise this arrogant administration, while pleased to pay what is not consumed. We don't want to make good for the neglegence of the Government.

Students, Workers, Pensioners, Employers, Specialists and all those with a profession, business people.......

lets show the government that we're better than him!

Well said V.Farrugia!! I fully agree with you!

V Farrugia - You said "Did it occur to anyone of you that subsidies are coming out of OUR taxes?! The higher electricity rates, although no one likes them, ensures that only those who actually CONSUME the electricity pay for it. You waste, you pay, full stop. It's the fairest system for all involved....Frankly I refuse to subsidise the electricity for wasters from my own taxes, when they could be used better elsewhere! If you can't pay, don't use!"

Well said! My thoughts exactly.

As for "protesting against the budget", it's high time that the people complaining about the high cost of fuel, licences, etc took into account the running costs of the car / boat / whatever it is they buy.

It's quite simple, really - If you can afford the running costs of a luxury (as opposed to the initial outlay when purchasing it), then buy; if you can't, then dream on. It is high time that people realised that the world is not full of freebies, and if they want something, then they've got to pay for it.

This shows how much maltese citizens are craving for a change. Today is a day that every one of us must feel proud to be a Maltese citizen, for the first time ever these unions made us proud. This is fantastic news, kuragg poplu.

@ V Farrugia

"We have no need to turn the whole house lights on, all evening long, just a single bulb in the room where one is, is enough. There is no need to iron every single laundered item, just the dressy trousers and shirts (I know families where even the dish cloths are ironed, go figure!). Turn off all appliances that are on standby at night: televisions, cable decoders, DVD players, modems etc. Most laundry can be done using cold water, if the soap is of a high enough quality. The list is endless... "

Dear V Farrugia. Did it occur to you that we already do that? Many people have been careful as you state above since the introduction of the surcharge.

So, what do you suggest that we do now?

Perhaps V Farrugia, Karl Abela, J Farrugia et and their followers should organise a protest to protest against these protests..... ROFL!

Well done all Unions for showing support to our people. Hopefully now the government and the PN will change their mind about putting the people down to the streets. They have to keep in mind that in democracy, that's the way people have to voice that they are not agreeing with people in power and the arrogance of those who govern. This government we have is now really showing that his only interest is to be in power and is showing that he has no respect to his people. Well done again and keep in mind that FLIMKIEN KOLLOX POSSIBLI

@ V. Farrugia

Everything is paid from our taxes, mobiles, Jaguars, trips abroad, and so on, the list is endless.

You don't seem to mind paying for any of these, but object to our taxes being used to lighten the burden of the new electricity tarrifs.

Your bias in defending the indefensible puts Guareschi Don Camillo to shame.

@ Karl Abela.

1)you are saying that oil prediction at end of 2009 will reach 180US$. This is just speculation. Its the speculators game to issue such prediction to cash more money in their pockets. Infact looking at the US economy right now shows clearly the fragile situation it is in.
2) i am 100% in favour of incentive schemes regarding alternative energy but why brace myself when i can invest in alternative energy from the extra cash spared from my discounted/reduced electricity bills?
3)unions are not going to shoulder my electricity bills but we are a democratic country and theses entities are there to fight for workers and people rights.
.

Some other short note - why being so pessimistic in this whole scenario Mr Abela? have these tariffs not affected you? Its a must to invest in alternative energy but the government (having social awareness) should help its people and not imposig excessive taxation.

I am in favour of such demostration. Other EU countries do these demostrations quite often to express the people's feelings and we are moving in the right track like other EU countries.

Viva Malta, let's, once and for all, dump this lying, deceitful, arrogant excuse for a government.

In such a historic moment, the way Net reported the event shows just how panicked the Government is.

That they are attempting to drive a wedge into this historic new partnership is evident. I wonder why?

Well done all unions!!
Together we are one. United here we come.
It is what our country needs a united front and show the Maltese Government that the people of Malta and Gozo are fed up with all the arrogance shown so far after the general election.
We must now also show our support, be present and make ourselves heard.

Did it occur to anyone of you that subsidies are coming out of OUR taxes?! The higher electricity rates, although no one likes them, ensures that only those who actually CONSUME the electricity pay for it. You waste, you pay, full stop. It's the fairest system for all involved.

Come off it, we can all go around our houses and see electrical waste around us. We have no need to turn the whole house lights on, all evening long, just a single bulb in the room where one is, is enough. There is no need to iron every single laundered item, just the dressy trousers and shirts (I know families where even the dish cloths are ironed, go figure!). Turn off all appliances that are on standby at night: televisions, cable decoders, DVD players, modems etc. Most laundry can be done using cold water, if the soap is of a high enough quality. The list is endless...

Frankly I refuse to subsidise the electricity for wasters from my own taxes, when they could be used better elsewhere! If you can't pay, don't use!

Well done to all unions.
This shows that GonziPN is alone in this issue.
Will he call it 'teatrini' too??

Well done all Unions. Although I have my doubts if the govt budge. However it will do so at its' peril.

Prosit to all. This is a good sign of how things should be done in our country.

I encourage all the other small unions and house unions to each officially issue a statement declaring their full support and participation in this manifestation.

The next thing should be a one day general strike.

About time that Austin Gatt reins in his arrogance and starts working at his job. Up to now we have not seen one new road, no maintenance, no enforcement on the illegally registered k/y and TF plated cars, no reduction in bus emissions, no improvement in the bus service, etc etc etc. Instead, we have been lumbered with ridiculous w & e rates, and we have witnessed the worst bulldozing, bullying tactics the country has experienced since the Lorry Sant days.

Well done Drs Lawrence Gonzi and Austin Gatt - you have managed to achieve the impossible and do what nobody has ever done in Malta's history - UNITE ALL OF MALTA'S UNIONS UNDER ONE BANNER!!!!!!!

Yes indeed - together everything is possible. I can now appreciate your election slogan.

Prosit to all the Unions for uniting in the interests of the workers they represent.

NOW LET'S FOLLOW THE VERY MATURE EXAMPLE THEY SET FOR US, AND BE UNITED OURSELVES!

This should not be a political issue where we people 'fight' each other. We all have a common objective in mind, a common 'enemy' (metaphorically speaking)!

Let's follow the example, let's be united.

Answer with a YES or a NO.

Are you all aware about next years record breaking oil predictions of 180 dollars per barrel by the end of 2009?

Wouldn’t it be wiser to take the governments incentive schemes for alternative energy sources and brace yourself for the next price hike?

Are MuscatMLP, GWU, the CMTU, UHM, MUT and the MUMN ready to shoulder your electricity bills when the price of oil hits the roof again next year?

Wouldn’t it rather be more responsible of them to educate the people to change to alternative sources of energy so that we are less dependent on oil before the next price increase in oil?

Shouldn't we just try and use our brains rather than take to the streets and let ourselves be led by unions that get paid from your salary to do these protests?

Do you honestly deep down in your heart believe that these unions will alleviate the financial burden of your electricity bill by giving you money for free?

I think you really ought to answer these questions as politically unbiased as possible, for your own sake.

@ John Borg
‘This decision only shows that all unions are equally short-sighted’

You must be the only Maltese National outside the periphery of ‘L-istamperija tal PN’with such an intransigent attitude and we must be grateful to God for that.

It feels so good to see unity. Prosit Maltin, now I feel truly proud to be Maltese. Viva Malta.

November the 14 th 2008 should be remembered in the history of Malta. After so much years of divide all the unions are getting united and all the people are getting united. It is like this that the Maltese nation will achieve goals. I m getting goose pimples with emotion as I write this.

A BIG WELL DONE TO ALL UNIONS AND MOVEMENTS AND PARTIES.

Well done go to all do unions involved. Its good to see that everyone put aside their differences for the common good of the people of Malta. Its not always easy, but this shows that where there's a will there is always a way. Good job to everyone.

We'll cross that bridge when we come to it dear G.Mangion.

As to this particular issue...what is your stand?

Happy that the GWU with the help of our Government has managed to unite all the Unions?

I' m a socialist and I'm proud and pleased with this unexpected turn of events.

On the other hand if you're a Nationalist, the way your party is acting in Government has had the desired effect in uniting rival unions...so yes, I guess you can also feel proud.

And the special thank you of the day, must, of course go to dear Austin Gatt....

More of the same dear minister....keep up the shennanigans, and soon you ll manage to achieve the unachievable....that is uniting the Maltese nation!

Prosit!

It is nice to see unity amongst the workers representatives. However it was a pity that the GWU did not join the other unions in getting a social pact concluded a few years ago. Maybe if a socail pact was in place, we would not be in the situation we are inow in.

Common sense has prevailed at last. The unions have realised that the budget measures will be hitting hard on their members and they have decided to defend their members' interests. Well done and keep it up!

All MCESD, representatives should join in. Most of the country believe in your (MCESD) stand against the unjust utility rates - unjust since price hikes are not accounted for, especially since oil prices are plummeting - This country deserves better

This is what the Maltese people used to be, finally we are standing up for our rights. Is that what the party in government expected? Congratulations to GWU for the initiative and for showing that it is always the first to stand up for workers rights.

UHM and all the other Unions are finally showing us that they are able to pull up their socks.

Now its up to US to show that we stand and still believe in our Unions. The only question is the following; Dear Minister Gatt, do you think that not taking into consideration what the Social Partners are saying is still an option.

@ j.Cutajar
Hames snin ohra 'noholmu' li ser nwaqqghu l-GVERN! Dream, darling, dream!

UNITED WE STAND DIVIDED WE FALL. Now we are UNITED. Government take note !!!!!!!!!!!!!! WE ARE UNITED altogether now

Well done to all of you. I really mean it, well done. Mr. Gejtu Vella, in one of my posts I wrote a couple of days back I asked you what were you going to do about the current situation and you clearly gave an answer. For this you have earned my utmost respect. Once again, well done to the Trade Union movement for being a beacon of courage and hope and for taking the necessary action that is needed to thwart off the sheer arrogance and despicable governance that has been going on for far too long.

GonziPN your divide and conquer tactics are failing.

PROSIT THE UNIONS THEY ARE DOING THERE JOB FOR THE FIRST TIME!!!!!!!!

Issa b'din it-tieni dimostrazzjoni kontra l-Gvern ser isehh xi haga tajba? Mhux fejn konna bqajna ghax il-Gvern mhux ser icaqlaq xejn. Ghax il-Gvern jaf li dak li qed jaghmel qed jaghmlu ghal gid ta' kulhadd. jekk tghaddi ta' l-unions u tal-lejber, ser nsibu ruhna b'salt nies imkeccija mix-xoghol, fabbriki jghalqu, u d-disastru li l-Gvern qed jipprova jevita ser jigi fuq kulhadd. Possibbli li hadd ma jaf xinhu jigri f'kull pajjiz tad-dinja? Is-sensji li qed jinghataw? Ahna biss il-vergni rridu nkunu? Mhux ahjar dawn il-klikek jinghaqdu mal-gvern biex forsi jkomplu jghinuh isalva s-sitwazzjoni? Milli jkomplu jaghmlu l-bsaten fir-roti? Mhux ta' b'xejn li n-nies tilfu kull fiducja fl=-unions u fl-ghaqdiet kollha, Li ser ikun jimxu huma biss il-laburisti ghax min ghandhu mohhu f'postu ma jippartecipax f'dal-purcinellati li ma jwasslu mkien.

That's the way to do it.......all puling the same rope.....

"FLIMKIEN KOLLOX POSSIBLI"....................!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Well done to all the employees' Unions. Now what about the employers' associations (MEA, FOI, GRTU)? Are they afraid or ashamed to join hands with the workers and make a stand against the arrogant stance taken by the Government and its unjustified imposition of taxes to make good for its deficiencies. Let's ALL unite for a change!

Good one, Arnie! Prosit, mates, all round.

Well done to all the UNIONS. Just forget any misunderstandings you had in the past . YES WE CAN all together change the water and electricity tariffs for the benefit of all. Well done and keep it up.

GWU keep up the good work. With your arguments you managed to convince all the unions that their presence is important for their members. Im sure that this unison will convince the government!!!!

Let's hope this union remains WHOEVER is in government.

@ CMTU, UHM, MUT and the MUMN.

May you find, the GUSTIZZJA SOCJALI BY, this dramatic U TURN !!

@ Jeremy J Camilleri: I wonder what all those claiming that the GWU was acting in a partisan manner have to say on this issue now?
You will get the answer in Let's say, mmmmmm 5 years more in the Next General Election !!!

WHat fantastic news. Well done GWU for the hard work you are doing to protect the workers and their families. Well done also to all joining unions.... this will be a day to remember. Government you should now stop and consider what everyone is trying to tell you. Your attitude is harming the country. Take action now and respect the others.

PROSET LILL-KULHADD GHALL-DAN IL-GEST. GONZIPN GHADU JAHSEB LI DAN HU TEATRIN? uNIONS INGHAQDU GHAX B'HEKK BISS NISTGHU INWAQQFU LILL-DAN IL-GVERN ARROGANTI. NAHDMU KEMM NIFILHU BIEX JEW JIRREVEDI IL-MIZURI LI HA JEW IWARRAB GHAX INWARRBUH.

Well done UHM and all other unions, a note to Mr John Borg, you are obviously not watching foreign news to see how governments are bending over backwards to create incentives for consumer spending, which is the only remedial cure for such a global ailment.

@John Borg

Well maybe he can look somewhere else........by looking inside his own house and dealing with the inefficacies would be a start....

This is a great day for Malta!

With all due respect I cannot even remotely imagine how the trade union movement can even consider the GWU as one of its movement. Did the unions forget what type of solidarity was shown by the GWU in other circumstances? Some people do have short memories. Did they forget how the GWU treated its OWN employees? Did they forget when the GWU was the 'marriage partner' of the MLP, so that now it became its concubine? Did they forget how much solidarity was shown by the GWU when they were fighting JUST FUNDAMENTAL causes like the right to strike? Did they forget how long it took the GWU to come up with some kind of reaction to the 1997 rates? How come it is only when the PN is governing that the GWU acquires lighting speed reaactive powers? When the other unions team up with the GWU it is rendering itself an accomplice to the betrayal of the workers for which the GWU was, is and always will be responsible. Is it possible that the union leaders are not astute enough not to dance to their tune? Poor worker.

So something is wrong Prime Minister Gonzi. It was about time that the unions finally decided to work together. Finally I see Grey in the picture and not the only White or Black!! Hope the maltese will be there to counted, electing the PN to govern did not mean that he can do whatever he want. We all know the tactics now....and we're not going to wait for the bonuses in the last two years before the election. Be reasonable and the maltese will co-operate....

Prosit thats how things should be all together for the same aim

A very well done to the Unions. I am impressed that for once we can all agree.

Prosit

DIN TA LLUM HA TIBQA MNAQXA F ISTORJA TA MALTA.PROSET IL UNIONS KOLLHA .

" The locusts have no king, yet they go forth all of them in bands "

This move was something that was never anticipated by the Government.
It should realise that the greater majority of Malta and Gozo are against his method of governing as this Government is unfit to govern.
As someone wrote a national strike is the next item unless a big change of policies and a forced change of heart has to be made by the PM.
Never forget that the same PM said that the people did not understand but they do understand now.
Is it possible that all the Nationalist MPs are behind the PM, all the way?
Is it possible that with those harsh budget measures and the forthcoming electricity bills they are sleeping well at night?
Is it possible that they agree totally?
Isn't there one single member who has the guts to say that he/she doesn't agree?
Is that democracy?
Difficult questions that require honest answers!
If not then the Government has no way to rule against the people wishes. It should resign.

Will the GonziPN also label these as theatrics?

congratulations to ALL these unions......now we are in business ......hope we stand together till the end of this issue and far.Prosit lill kulhadd

Good show AT LAST. Issa mhux fejn kien dak u fejn kien l-iehor. Inharsu il quddiem. Grazzi GonziPN u Grazzi Pio Gatt li fl-ahhar irnexxielkom taghqdu lill union. United we stand. Go out and wipe that arrogant smile off their faces. Viva l-ghaqda

Proset UHM tax-xoghol siewi li taghmlu taht kwalunkwe Gvern. Importanti li kullhadd jattendi sabiex naghtu sapport lill-UHM u l-Unions kollha.

John Borg

Incredible & unbelievable!

Well Done... When i see this democratic incentive i feel proud to be Maltese.

Well done to the trade union movement! I appeal to the political parties who already declared they would attend, MLP, AD and AN to withdraw their official representation at the demonstration and just appeal to their supporters to attend. In this way the activity will turn out to be JUST A TRADE UNION MOVEMENT activity. Maltese people from all walks of life will attend without showing their political affiliations. I also appeal to all trade unions affiliated to the CMTU (like MUBE, MAM, etc) to also endorse this activity. Another appeal goes to the constituted bodies like the GRTU, Chamber of Commerce, FOI, Employers Association. The new utility bills will negatively effect everybody with no distinction. This is a historic opportunity not to be missed.

A very superb move by all.
A big well done and keep on the fight together.
No bickering no silly arguments, just one united purpose to confront the Government arrogant, deceitful, stubborn and dogmatic diktat.
Now this wafer thin majority of a Government knows what is on the menu=humble pie.
United we stand and divided we fall. Never forget that.

DIN TA LLUM HA TIBQA MNAQXA F ISTORJA TA MALTA.PROSET IL UNIONS KOLLHA .

Reminds me of the time when I organised one...

This decision only shows that all unions are equally short-sighted. If the state has to fork out more money to subsidize energy costs (which is what these protests are really about), how is it going to be able to increase investment in education, health care, social services? But many Maltese parents don't care what kind of education their kids are getting as long as its free. Nor how much health care costs the state every year as long as they don't have to pay a cent for it. Nor that the number of tax-payers is getting smaller while the number of pensioners grows every year.

Isma Gvern.......

Prosit lil UHM. Qed turi li veru hi union indipendenti u li ma ghandna wicc hadd.

Congratulations to all UNIONS for standing as one to tell this arrogant GONZIPN and GATT government that the Maltese poeple had enough.

PROSIT U GRAZZI.

Kif jghid il-Malti :
"Mix-xewk johrog il-Ward"

Prosit :)
J'Alla l'Gid

Well done!!!!!!!

I wonder what all those claiming that the GWU was acting in a partisan manner have to say on this issue now?

Time has proved that this never was a partisan issue.

I must admit that I never expected such a result, as managing to unite all unions is no mean accomplishment!

This all goes to prove how arrogant and misguided the Government has become, just 8 months after a general election.

Prosit GWU, and Prosit to all the others for joining!

United we stand!!

Issa dawk li xebghu jghajru l'Gejtu Vella tal-UHM, ghandhom jiblighu kliemhom u jitolbuh skuza.

L-affarijiet hekk imorru.

Prosit UHM, GWU, MUT, CMTU, MUMN. Nitlob l'Unions l-ohrajn jinghaqdu wkoll

Congrats to all. That's the way to go. All the unions must show a united front if we're to get anywhere. Keep up the good work.

About time we all unite and stop this goverment from eroding our already battered incomes.
We have a severe economic downturn but our present goverment chooses to ignore the crisis and put more financial burden on the Maltese taxpayers.
Robbing Peter to pay Paul budget for sure.

@ IGalea

Did you get an answer to your previous questions as to where is gejtu vella of UHM?

He was working towards a consensus......

This is fantastic news. We are learning at last. Now the next step should be a general strike until the government revise the utility bills. Our standard of living is going to make a step backwards especially the low income workers and the pensioners. So I beg all the unions to unite and stop the arrogance of this government.

nisp[#era li net news ma johrog jghid li anki dawn se jirkbu rikba politka. proset lill unions kollha. forsi fl-ahhar il gevrn jerga jahsibha. PROSIT PROSIT

Dare we hope....that change is finally coming to Malta?
well done to all the unions who are finally standing up to be counted and taking a common stand on an issue which will affect every single family in the country

Prosit...........u grazzi li gharftu li hemm bzonn ta l-ghaqda. Hrigtuli demgha min ghajneja.

Prosit!!
AT last common sense is prevailing!!!
UNITED WE STAND -DIVIDED WE FALL

GOOD JOB
Congratulations for showing unity in front of an arrogant and incompetent and heartless Gonzipn Government

PROSIT LIL KULHADD!!!!!!!

Hekk ghandhom ikunu l-Unions!

PROSIT!!!!!

Issa nitlob lil kulhadd biex jaqta l-batibekki u jhalli l-Unions kollha jahdmu flimkien. Prosit ghal darb'ohra