Job Hunters Queue Around the Block in Gozo as Election Nears

GOZO – The usually quiet streets of Victoria, Gozo’s capital, have been buzzing with an unusual sight lately. Hundreds of job seekers have been lining up outside the local JobsPlus office, snaking around the block and down Republic Street. The long queues have become a daily occurrence, with people waiting for hours, hoping to secure a temporary job before the upcoming election.

Alex Borg’s Pre-Election Promise

Labour MP Alex Borg promised to create 1,000 temporary jobs in Gozo before the election. His promise seems to have sparked a frenzy among job seekers, with many hoping to be one of the lucky ones to secure a position. Borg, who is also the Minister for Gozo, has been criticized by the Opposition for using public funds to create jobs just before the election. However, he maintains that the initiative is aimed at helping those in need, regardless of the political timing.

JobsPlus Under Pressure

JobsPlus, the national employment agency, has been inundated with applications. The agency’s director, Joseph Farrugia, admitted that they are struggling to cope with the demand. “We’re doing our best to process applications as quickly as possible,” he said. “But with such a high volume of applicants, it’s a challenge.” Farrugia also warned that not everyone will be successful, as the number of jobs available is limited.

Despite the long wait and the uncertainty, job seekers remain hopeful. Many have been out of work for months, if not years, and see this as their best chance to earn an income before the election. “I’ve been looking for a job for over a year,” said one applicant, who wished to remain anonymous. “I’ll wait as long as it takes. I need this job.”

Election Politics or Genuine Help?

The Opposition has accused Borg of using the temporary jobs as a political ploy to win votes. They argue that the jobs are not sustainable and will disappear after the election. Borg, however, insists that the initiative is about helping people in need, not politics. “We’re trying to make a difference in people’s lives,” he said. “Whether it’s election time or not, we have a responsibility to help those who are struggling.”

The long queues outside JobsPlus in Gozo have become a symbol of the island’s economic struggles. While some see the temporary jobs as a lifeline, others view them as a political band-aid. Regardless of the politics, one thing is clear: the people of Gozo are desperate for work.

As the election nears, the queues outside JobsPlus are expected to continue. Whether they will lead to lasting jobs or political gain remains to be seen. But for now, the people of Gozo are queuing up, hoping for a chance to earn a living.