The General Workers’ Union (GWU) and the Malta Delivery Fleet Operators Association (MDFOA) have signed a series of collective agreements covering Malta’s food delivery sector.
In Malta, Wolt and Bolt are the two main platforms and riders are hired by sub-contractor companies known as ‘fleet operators’. The collective agreements will cover the majority of riders in the sector, who will also be part of the GWU under the terms of the agreements.
Key measures included in the agreements include a fixed monthly salary replacing the commission-based payment system, entitlement to paid annual leave, paid sick leave, overtime payments and premium rates in accordance with the agreement. In addition, workers will no longer be required to bear the costs of uniforms, motorcycles or any other equipment necessary for their work. All wages will also be paid directly into their bank accounts, eliminating cash payments.
“Today we are sending a clear message that these workers deserve to be recognised, respected and protected,” GWU Deputy Secretary General Kevin Abela said. “Dignity at work is a fundamental right for every worker, regardless of the sector in which they are employed. These agreements demonstrate that through social dialogue we can build fairer working conditions and stronger industrial relations.”
Jusef Meli, President of the MDFOA, said that the agreement was “a major step forward for our industry”.
“Together we have created a mechanism that strengthens workers’ rights while ensuring their effective observance across the sector,” he added. “This is a historic moment that makes Malta the first country in the European Union to introduce a protection mechanism of this kind for food couriers working through digital platforms.”
Malta’s Minister for Infrastructure, Planning and Employment, Jonathan Attard, said that the agreement was “a very important development for the food courier sector.”
“Not only are we ensuring better working conditions for all workers, but we also hope this development will spread across the entire sector to ensure a level playing field, so that those employers who respect workers’ rights are not placed at a competitive disadvantage,” Attard added.
Read more here.