The first-ever collective agreement between the Police, unions, and the government was signed on Monday.

Home Affairs Minister Michael Farrugia said the agreement would see constables and police inspectors bumped up a scale on the public sector pay grid. Policemen would also enjoy improved disturbance allowances and overtime rates.

A major sticking point resolved by the agreement will see policemen work 40-hour, rather than 46-hour weeks.

Principal Permanent Secretary Mario Cutajar said the agreement was “another first” after officers were given the right to join a union.

The collective agreement was the fruit of that right as it had been negotiated by unions, the government, and the police top brass.

The two police unions - the Malta Police Association and the Police Officers' Union - have unanimously approved the agreement.