MCESD Discusses Occupational Health and Safety, Substance Abuse, and the National Alcohol Policy

During a meeting of the MCESD, the Social Partners discussed two key themes: occupational health and safety, including substance abuse and its implications, and the National Alcohol Policy.

Regarding health and safety, the Social Partners noted that although the number of workplace accidents has decreased, this is still not enough. They emphasised the need for further action to reduce fatalities and ensure a safe working environment for everyone. They highlighted the importance of more training, awareness, and collaboration between public and private entities to improve efficiency and effectiveness while encouraging investment and incentives for businesses to continue prioritising safety.

The benefits of adopting new technologies, such as artificial intelligence, to strengthen enforcement and monitoring were also underlined.

Regarding the National Policy on Alcohol and Substance Abuse in the Workplace, the Social Partners expressed deep concern and stressed the importance of maintaining a safe and responsible working environment. They noted that substance abuse — including alcohol — poses significant risks to the safety and well-being of both workers and employers. Therefore, they called for stronger legislation, greater education and awareness, and better coordination between sectors to ensure that change is effective and sustainable.

Parliamentary Secretary for Social Dialogue Andy Ellul, who is politically responsible for the MCESD, stated that the Council will continue to promote collaboration among all stakeholders, with the ultimate goal of creating safer workplaces, better protection for workers, and fostering a culture of shared responsibility. He acknowledged the work being carried out by the government in occupational health and safety, including the expansion of OHSA’s capacity to conduct more inspections.

The Minister for Justice and Construction Sector Reform, Jonathan Attard, together with the Chairperson of the Occupational Health and Safety Authority (OHSA), Pierre Fava, and the Authority’s Chief Executive Officer, Dr Josianne Cutajar, presented the reforms implemented recently. These reforms aim to continue driving a cultural shift in how health and safety at work are perceived and managed. Minister Attard explained that a crucial step in this transformation came with the introduction of the new OHSA law, which places workers’ health and safety as a top priority.

Also present was the Minister for Social Policy and Children’s Rights, Michael Falzon, who reiterated the Government’s commitment to further strengthening this sector. He referred to the National Alcohol Policy, which received extensive feedback during the public consultation process, and confirmed that the policy is now in its final stages of publication following the consideration of all stakeholder input. Minister Falzon also noted that the government is introducing new legislation granting authorities greater powers to carry out random roadside testing in order to prevent potentially fatal accidents.

For her part, Parliamentary Secretary for Equality and Reforms Rebecca Buttigieg stated:

“It is essential that we maintain an open dialogue with social partners, because the reform on the responsible use of cannabis aims to ensure that those who use cannabis responsibly are not criminalised. These people do not belong in prison. At the same time, it is important to ensure that the laws of our country continue to be observed and respected.”

Based on the feedback and recommendations of the Social Partners, the MCESD continues to encourage collaboration among all entities, with the shared goal of achieving safer workplaces, better protection for workers, and fostering a national culture of responsibility.

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