'Historic' collective agreement for food couriers sets clear rights for workers

Food couriers will be guaranteed a basic wage higher than the national minimum wage as part of a collective agreement hailed as a “historic step” for the sector.

The agreement reached by the General Workers’ Union and the Malta Delivery Fleet Operators Association after “many months of negotiations and challenges”, establishes a clear framework of rights and obligations aimed at strengthening worker protection while providing greater certainty and stability for operators in the sector, a government statement said.

Among the key measures couriers will benefit from are provisions on working hours and overtime pay, sick leave and vacation leave, statutory bonuses, and stronger occupational health and safety standards.

Last year, some 200 food couriers joined the GWU after they complained about poor earnings and work conditions akin to "modern-day slavery". 

The signing ceremony on Friday was witnessed by three ministers, Employment Minister Jonathan Attard, Sustainable Mobility Minister Chris Bonett, and Social Dialogue Minister Keith Azzopardi Tanti.

The agreement was witnessed by three ministers. Photo: GWU

GWU deputy general secretary Kevin Abela hailed the "historic" agreement, adding it sent a "clear message that these workers deserve to be recognised, respected and protected". 

"Dignity in the workplace is a fundamental right of every worker, regardless of the sector in which they are employed. These agreements are proof that, through social dialogue, we can build fairer working conditions and stronger industrial relations," Abela said.

Speaking on Friday, Attard said the agreement was “a very important development” for the food courier sector.

“Not only are we ensuring improved conditions for all workers, but we also hope this progress will spread across the entire sector so that there is a level playing field and companies that respect workers' conditions are not placed at a disadvantage."

The agreement also strengthens workers' representation through the trade union and promotes constructive social dialogue between all parties involved. It is intended to increase professionalism, transparency and sustainability in the sector while ensuring fairer working conditions and fair competition among operators.

Azzopardi Tanti said the agreement was a “sign of great maturity”.

“We are introducing modern governance structures that guarantee transparency and mutual trust," the minister said.

Meanwhile, Bonett described the agreement as one where “everyone wins”.

“Workers benefit from better conditions and greater protection, while employers who invest and take risks also benefit. This is an important agreement that will pave the way for similar agreements, creating greater certainty and benefits for workers, operators and consumers,” Bonett said.