On Friday 16th May, EUROPE DIRECT Gozo in collaboration with the Gozo Business Chamber hosted a public dialogue entitled “The Situation of Migrants in Our Economy”, held at Dar Manresa in Victoria. The event brought together employers, migrant workers, and representatives from civil society to reflect on the evolving realities of Gozo’s labour market.
The seminar was opened by the Chamber’s CEO, Daniel Borg, who moderated the discussion. The objective was to provide a platform for open and informed dialogue between key stakeholders, with the aim of identifying practical ways to support fair and sustainable working relationships.
The event began with a presentation by Juergen Attard, Senior Manager for Research and Policy Development at the Gozo Regional Development Authority (GRDA), who offered an overview of foreign nationals in Gozo’s workforce. He outlined how non-locals have been an integral part of Gozo’s recent economic growth, particularly by contributing to domestic consumption and labour market expansion.
Following this, insights were provided by:
- Fr Jimmy Xerri, Director – Caritas Gozo
- Dr Stanley Joe Portelli, Legal Clinic – Diaconia of Gozo
- Dr Katrine Camilleri, Director – Jesuit Refugee Service (Malta)
These speakers shared their experiences and perspectives based on their daily engagement with migrant workers, addressing both legal and social challenges faced by this community.
The dialogue also featured two valuable contributions from local employers Thomas Xerri and Joseph Borg, who offered their perspectives on the integration of foreign workers within the workplace. Their testimonies highlighted the importance of awareness and practical guidance for employers in managing diverse teams effectively.
The event concluded with closing remarks by Michael Galea, President of the Gozo Business Chamber, who reiterated the Chamber’s commitment to fostering ongoing dialogue and promoting ethical leadership among employers in Gozo.
