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The Maltese celebrate Workers’ Day
By MaltaMedia News
May 1, 2008 - 8:10:53 PM

Alongside several other nations, Malta celebrates Worker’s Day on Thursday. The day is seen as an important event to promote solidarity and integrity amongst workers, between employers and employees and in encouraging a healthy working environment.

The 1st May holiday came into being after American protesters took to the United States’ streets for better employment conditions in 1866. In time 1st May became an internationally celebrated day condoning workers’ efforts all around the globe.

On Thursday Prime Minister Dr. Lawrence Gonzi held a National Conference with the theme ‘Together Everything Is Possible’.

During the conference, the PM invited the Labour Party to join forces in the organisation of a National Conference on Workers' Day next year, saying the discussion about work should not be politicised. Dr Gonzi also said that Workers’ Day should not solely be symbolised with street parties.

During the conference, Dr Gonzi outlined the four main points towards the country's success within the next five years.  These are the country’s economy, investment in workers, making use of EU opportunities and reinforcing social dialogue.

Meanwhile, speaking at a May 1 activity on Thursday evening in Valletta, acting MLP leader Dr Charles Mangion said the Malta Labour Party should not be afraid of change and has to open up to others by listening more.

In his address, Dr Mangion expressed his satisfaction at the way that the party’s electoral commission is proceeding with the electoral process of the new MLP leader. While each election brings about tension, the acting leader augured that whoever wins assures that no one is a loser and that all can make part of an organising team within the party.

The MLP will not be afraid to fight against abuse. “We will use all the tools available with the parliamentary democracy, including pairing, to stop the government from going against what is in the interest of the nation. Meanwhile, Dr Mangion called for the government to consult seriously not only by informing the Labour Party but also by considering the opinion of those who have a different political belief than that of the government.

Speaking on a personal note, acting party leader Dr Mangion said that he will keep working within the MLP even though he will not be contesting for MLP leader.

In Malta, May 1 also commemorates the fourth-year anniversary of Malta’s accession within the European Union.