Numerous pieces of legislation exist to protect the rights of the disabled, including the 1969 Employment of Disabled Persons Act which ensures employment opportunities for the disabled. The 1992 Structure Plan set forth policies requiring accessibility to buildings and public transport. Basic educational and training programs for persons with physical or mental disabilities are available. Section 6 Worker Rights a. The Right of Association Labor rights are traditionally well protected in Malta.
Workers have the right to associate freely and to strike, a right respected in practice.
Only uniformed personnel of the armed forces and police are prohibited from striking. In 1993 there were 24 registered trade unions, representing about 50 percent of the work force. Although all unions are independent of political parties, the largest union, the General Workers' Union, is perceived as having a close association with the Malta Labor Party. During the year there were 10 strikes which resulted in the loss of 2,480 work days. Under the Industrial Relations Act of 1976, the responsible minister may refer disputes to the Industrial Tribunal for binding settlement.