Alternattiva Demokratika – The Green Party said this morning, that one year after the public transport reform, “it is evident that despite improvements in the service, there is a long way to go for a public transport revolution.”

Michael Briguglio, AD Chairperson, said, “It is positive that Malta had got rid off its previous fleet of heavily-polluting junk buses and that public transport is no longer run by cowboys. Yet, what we have now is a public transport service, which, despite various improvements, still leaves much to be desired, especially with regard to certain routes which were removed or downsized.

“It is also very disappointing to hear of the exploitation of Arriva workers who are paid a pittance for long shifts. I appeal to such workers to find strength in unity. It is clear that the Government, which refuses to give adequate funding to public transport, keeps washing its hands off responsibility for universally accessible public transport with goob job conditions.”

Ralph Cassar, AD spokesperson for transport, energy and IT, said, “It is very clear that the system is not coping with the demand. During certain period of the day the timetable is not adhered to and the frequency of routes is not adhered to.

“There are various examples of the problems: Marsascala, Fgura, the frequency of the Birkirkara and Hamrun routes is not being adhered to. Most probably the problem is that there are not enough of buses. Austin Gatt introduced a system which reduces subsidies in this important area which had unsatisfactory results.

“In certain instances it appears that the services have increased, however it is still not coping with the demand and in certain instances the service is not reliable. Moreover the ticket system means a waste of time. The two different tariff systems are hampering the driver with the result of longer trips and waiting times,” Ralph Cassar concluded.

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