Arnold Cassola, Alternattiva Demokratika’s Chairperson, has said that private sector monopolies in the transport sector must be phased out – both for the benefit of the consumer and also to create more opportunities for those who want to set up shop and provide jobs in this sector.

Prof Cassola continued, “I appeal to the authorities to get all stakeholders to sit around a table and discuss a plan on the phasing out of monopolies in this sector. In the meantime those who had the huge advantage of operating in what amounts to a legally sanctioned cartel should realise that they cannot expect the public to accept this state of affairs to continue.”

AD spokesperson on Industry, Energy and Transport Ralph Cassar said, “A reform of the transport sector is long overdue. As regards public transport in particular AD believes that anyone, under certain conditions such as the use of the latest clean technology, should be able to offer scheduled transport services in Malta and Gozo. The state should also provide a public transport service – like all cities and countries in the EU – since the aim of the state service should be to offer transportation options at prices affordable to all and to and from destinations which might not be commercially viable. We urge Minister Gatt to initiate discussions with clear targets and deadlines about public transport as soon as possible. Government should strengthen the social function in any reform of mass transportation systems and keep in mind our country’s commitments to reduce pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. Given the price of fuel, the relatively large percentage of income spent on transport, the congestion on the roads and the lack of a modern holistic mass transportation infrastructure we cannot afford to wait any longer.”

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