The Government of Malta, after negotiations with the Central Bank and the social partners of the Malta Council for Economic and Social Development, announced on 24th March 2020 a total aid package of €70 million per month.
The measures announced are aimed at supporting employers who are struggling to pay salaries and preserving employment of individuals of the adversely affected sectors.
The Government has committed itself to provide an €800 subsidy to the workers through their employers. This means that the employees are guaranteed a salary of €1200 per month, €800 shall be subsidized by the Government and €400 shall be paid by the employer. Should the employer not be able to pay the €400 due to severe impact of the crisis, the employer is to register with the Department of Industrial Relations for further assistance.
The measure will apply retrospectively, from 9th March to enterprises which have already dismissed employees, as long as and to the extent that the employer re-employs said employees.
The critical sectors are: wholesale, retail, accommodation, food and beverage service activities, vehicle rentals, employment activities, tour operators, travel agencies and other related enterprises, security companies, building services companies, transport companies, creative, arts, and entertainment activities, personal activities such as barbers, beauticians, and other similar enterprises.
The Government pledged to pay 1 day of work based on a monthly €800 salary, per employee, with possibility of this increasing to 2 days later on. This will be applicable to other sectors, which experience downturn due to Covid-19, such as manufacturing and warehousing.
Businesses based in Gozo operating in these sectors, are immediately eligible for 2 days salary, without the need to meet additional conditions.
For individuals who are self-employed, and who have employees, the Government will pay 3 days salary per employee, per week.
Part-timers will benefit from the same benefit but pro-rated, based on a monthly salary of €500.
We may clarify any query that there may be with respect to these employment support measures, and we may assist you with the application process.
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