MCESD Discusses Occupational Pensions and the Social Climate Fund
At a meeting of the MCESD, held at the request of the Maltese Unions Forum (For.U.M.), the Occupational Pension Scheme was discussed. This proposed scheme allows employees to invest part of their income for the future, with Government supporting this initiative by contributing an equivalent amount, up to a maximum of 100 euros per month. The meeting considered the scheme in more detail following its announcement in the 2025 Budget.
This MCESD Meeting took place at the Inquisitor’s Palace in Birgu, a setting that not only celebrates our national heritage but also inspires new thinking grounded in long-term vision.
Present for the discussion, alongside the MCESD social partners and representatives from the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC), were the Minister for Finance and Employment, Hon. Clyde Caruana, and the Parliamentary Secretary for Social Dialogue, Hon. Andy Ellul.
Minister Caruana emphasised that these discussions are crucial to ensure the scheme is fair, robust, and sustainable, not only for today but also for future generations. Parliamentary Secretary Andy Ellul highlighted the role of the MCESD as a platform for open dialogue and as a key reference point where important issues across all sectors of Maltese society are discussed.
MCESD social partners expressed their support, recognising the initiative as a positive step toward protecting the standard of living beyond retirement. They contributed actively, requesting clarifications and putting forward key recommendations covering the perspectives of both employers and workers.
These included improving communication efforts, ensuring affordability, allowing mobility in the labour market, reducing administrative burdens for smaller businesses, and maintaining transparency on fees and governance. Social partners also called for further discussions once the scheme is further developed.
The second part of the meeting focused on the European Social Climate Fund, presented by Permanent Secretary EU funds Jonathan Vassallo. The presentation outlined the fund’s objectives in supporting a fair and inclusive green transition.
It also served as a preview of an upcoming public consultation, which will include a dedicated MCESD session to ensure social partners and stakeholders are actively engaged in shaping national priorities. Social partners acknowledged the fund’s relevance and expressed interest in contributing to measures that balance environmental goals with social justice.
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