Two collective agreements have been signed with the Malta Union of Midwives and Nurses (MUMN), improving working conditions and opportunities for professional advancement for around 180 healthcare workers. The signing took place in the presence of Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Health Ian Borg, following the successful conclusion of negotiations on both agreements.Deputy Prime Minister Ian Borg said that the Government’s vision is to continue investing in healthcare in every possible way, including through projects, concrete changes and reforms, but above all by further improving working conditions for those at the forefront of patient care.“It was a pleasure to witness the signing of these two collective agreements. I would like to thank the union’s leadership and the workers’ representatives for their efforts. These workers make a significant contribution to patients’ health and these agreements recognise the value of their work,” said Dr Borg.“It is crucial that we continue to improve workers’ conditions, because employees who are happy at work bring that positive energy to their duties and make the best use of their skills. When we invest in our workers, we also strengthen the quality of care that patients receive,” he added.One agreement covers Dental Surgery Assistants, while the other covers Phlebotomists, Phlebotomy Technicians, and Decontamination and Sterilisation Technicians. The employees covered work primarily at Mater Dei Hospital and Gozo General Hospital, with a number also serving in other healthcare and elderly care entities.The agreements also provide greater opportunities for career progression, including the creation of a Coordinator role within the respective professions. They place a strong emphasis on structured training and professional development, enabling employees to take on additional responsibilities that strengthen services and contribute to better patient care.The employees covered will benefit from enhanced allowances that recognise their increased responsibilities and contribution to the health service.MUMN President Paul Pace stressed that agreements such as these, achieved through everyone’s cooperation, continue to strengthen Malta’s health service and improve the working environment for employees.“These agreements are important and are the result of negotiations that have secured better conditions for workers. Ultimately, patients will also benefit. I would like to thank the Minister for his intervention and everyone involved who worked together to achieve this outcome,” he said.What do you make of this?•