Ministers outline ETC strategy in Gozo

The Employment and Training Corporation (ETC) on Tuesday issued a document on a new strategy on the job sector and training in Gozo.

The document reviews the state of the employment sector in the sister island, analyses the difficulties that hinder job creation and draws up a strategy on how the Gozitan job market can adapt itself where training programmes and job creation were concerned

The document was jointly released by Gozo Minister Giovanna Debono and Social Policy Minister Lawrence Gonzi.

Dr Gonzi stressed the need for a carefully drawn up strategy after detailed analysis of the current situation was made. He said the government was introducing reform in employment through legislation and new measures which would make the job market more flexible reflecting local social and economic realities better.

Gozo stands to benefit greatly from these measures because of its unique situation, the minister explained. Hence the ETC report which should provide opportunities for consultation with interested parties so the Gozitan job market would be safeguarded, while human resources with the necessary skills would be guaranteed.

Dr Gonzi remarked that last year registered unemployed in Gozo were the lowest in seven years. This, however, was no reassurance, he said, adding that the participation rate in the job market in Gozo had to grow. The rate is currently too low, not only where women were concerned but also men. Registered unemployed also need to attend training programmes as most of them had skills which were too basic.

Employers, trade unions and constituted bodies are urged to give their views so that there would be consensus on the implementation of the strategy in all sectors of economic activity.

Copies of the document are available at www.msp.gov.mt or at the Gozo Ministry Website www.gozo.gov.mt