Employers take umbrage at video promoting public sector’s flexible work arrangements

The Malta Employers’ Association has criticised a video released by Servizz Pubbliku highlighting flexible working measures available within the public sector, arguing that the messaging risks placing additional pressure on private employers in an already tight labour market.

The video outlines a range of flexibility options available to public sector employees.

These include the possibility of applying for up to two days of remote work per week where duties permit, flexi-time arrangements allowing workers to start or finish earlier, and the option to spread a 40-hour working week across four, five or six days through a “flexi week” system. The video also refers to special leave entitlements for life events such as marriage, childbirth, blood donation or examinations, as well as leave for individuals representing Malta abroad in sporting or cultural activities.

In a statement, the Malta Employers’ Association said it had flagged the video due to concerns about its potential impact on private sector employers. The association argued that, given current labour shortages, promoting public service employment through a focus on flexible conditions could make it more difficult for private businesses to compete for talent, particularly as many firms face operational and commercial constraints that limit their ability to match such arrangements.

The association also criticised the content of the video, stating that it did not sufficiently highlight productive careers or the essential services delivered by public sector workers. It described this as a disservice to employees in demanding roles, including police officers, healthcare professionals and others whose work supports the country’s core services.

Malta Employers further said it is monitoring workforce shifts from the private to the public sector and reiterated its call for a halt to non-essential government recruitment at least six months ahead of a general election.