Reactions: GWU disappointed, GRTU pleased

The GWU has expressed disappointment that its Budget proposals were ignored by the government. The union said the government did not heed its calls to reduce the energy tariffs, raise the minimum wage and bring in cost of living adjustments every six months, instead of every year. It criticised the government for raising duty on fuel. The union also criticised the rise in gas prices announced by Liquigas. GRTU PLEASED The GRTU said it welcomed the general strategy of the Budget, which was one of stability while encouraging growth. It welcomed the assistance being given to families and said it was pleased that many of its proposals to help SMEs had been taken on board, including the extension to the MicroInvest scheme. It also welcomed the reduction in the top rate of tax. MHRA REACTION Although positive from a national perspective, it was less so from a hotel investor perspective, the Malta Hotels and Restaurants said this evening. In a reaction to the budget presented this evening, MHRA president Tony Zahra said the association was pleased to note a number of measures aimed at promoting tourism but more details were required. He said that the MHRA’s request to the government to...