News
GFSB: Limited Consultation
The GFSB has issued a press release but wished to update our members directly.
In 2020 when the new legislation was first brought to the attention of the GFSB, the GFSB stated it was very concerned that although the spirit of the UK Act was being followed, much of it has been left out in the Gibraltar draft which made the process less consultative, without scope for negotiation, and it was heavily biased towards recognition of unions being imposed on workplaces with significant punitive measures for those who are unable to cooperate.
The GFSB strongly opposed an Act which increased the ability of unions to bring aggressive and adversarial demands to workplaces, with little provision for the employer’s rights from being appropriately addressed or supported throughout that process. In the case of small businesses, this approach would have been very damaging indeed.
The GFSB also highlighted that many small businesses had been catastrophically hit by Covid and the onset of Brexit limitations to market forces and client base.
The GFSB requested that the Government took into consideration the fact that many of Gibraltar’s small businesses are family-run businesses and would require as much support and protection to weather the current economic storm as their employees. In fact, felt it would be better to focus on improving employee and employer relations through dialogue and conciliation processes than placing further requirements such as enforced collective bargaining without correct independent support of the process.
If a mechanism to facilitate collective bargaining by unions in all workplaces was required, then it would request at the very least, the appropriate support structure and advisory body must also be established to ensure fair and justifiable implementation and application.
There is suitable and sufficient legislation already protecting the rights and welfare of employees in Gibraltar and the current Law exists to protect workers’ rights.
Employment (Trade Union Recognition) Regulations 2023
Please get in touch and let us know what you think: gfsb@gfsb.gi
SHARE THIS
OTHER NEWS
Education
Growing Beyond the Owner
For many SMEs, the success of the business has been built on the expertise, relationships and commitment of its owner. This entrepreneurial approach has been instrumental in the growth of many of Gibraltar's successful businesses. However, as organisations develop, dependence on a single individual can become a strategic risk.
Brexit
News
Freight Delays Bite
Imports including medicines, fresh produce and other commercial goods faced significant delays as businesses and Customs adjusted to the Treaty’s new frontier procedures, with some freight reportedly held since the arrangements began on 15 July. The disruption is the clearest early warning that documentation errors and unfamiliar processes can quickly affect stock availability, perishable goods and operating costs across Gibraltar’s retail and wholesale sectors.
Thrive
Level Up This Summer
For many, summer offers something that's in short supply during the rest of the year: space. Space to learn, think differently, meet new people and recharge before the final push towards year-end. If you're looking to make the most of the season, here are three ways to return in September with fresh ideas, renewed energy and a few new connections.
Brexit
What a Week!
Over the past two years, I must have written more words about the Treaty than almost any other subject. Through the Thrive EDIT, I've tried to cut through the politics and focus on what really matters to Gibraltar's business community. We've unpacked customs guidance, explained residency proposals, questioned support measures, covered Government announcements, highlighted members' concerns and, where necessary, asked awkward questions on your behalf. The aim has always been the same: to make one of the biggest economic changes in Gibraltar's history feel just a little easier to understand.
Advocacy
Events
Representing your interests
At the GFSB, we believe membership should deliver real value. That means more than simply representing businesses around the table. It means creating opportunities to learn, connect and grow. Since September 2025, we've delivered 34 events attended by 1,329 members and guests, with the vast majority offered free of charge as part of GFSB membership. Whether you're looking to sharpen your skills, grow your network or stay ahead of the issues shaping Gibraltar's business landscape, our events are designed to make doing business that little bit easier.