The potential of an autonomous trade union for employees within the hotels and restaurants sector on the Maltese islands

Abstract

This research mainly focuses on the human resources of the hotels and restaurants sector. It investigates their experiences, perceptions and expectations regarding employee rights, benefits and trade unionism, and also determines whether an independent trade union is needed for employees working within the sector. The literature review commences with an evaluation of the hospitality industry and its significance to the Maltese islands. In addition, the foundations of trade unions, their functions and the evolution of trade unionism in Malta are explained. Finally, an overall scenario of the current situation within the sector is also reviewed. A qualitative study which consisted of semi-structured interviews was conducted with four organisations and 15 hotel and restaurant employees. The general findings indicate that employment rights and benefits within the hotels and restaurants sector are somewhat disregarded. Due to this fact, the sample of employees expressed a need for an independent trade union to represent them, and to address, tackle and eventually eliminate any form of illegalities related to employee rights and benefits.