In a statement issued this evening, one of the bidders for the public transport contract stated it had no discussions on the bid and also that it has not been notified regarding a Preferred Bidder.

Island Buses Malta Limited said: 

Reference is made to recent reports in the local media in relation to the concession for the provision of public transportation services.

In this regard, Island Buses Malta Limited would like to state that it has not been involved in any discussions of whatever nature on this matter.

Island Buses Malta Limited has to date not been in receipt of any official notification as to which entity has been chosen as Preferred Bidder.

In this regard Island Buses Malta Limited understands that no negotiations should have been entered into with any bidder prior to the formal announcement of a Preferred Bidder in terms of Expression of Interest Notice for the Provision of Scheduled Bus Services in Malta and Gozo.