Malta has applied for EU funds in a bid to get the Marsa junction project started, Transport Minister Joe Mizzi said this morning.

Speaking during the inauguration of a new Sliema to Marsamxett ferry service, he said that the EU was not allocating a lot of funds towards roads but when the EU acknowledged that Malta has a traffic congestion problem it accepted Malta's request for a boost in funds.

When asked by this newsroom if there has been a timeframe set, the minister replied that the fund application procedure is under way and as soon as Malta has the funds the project would start.

Overt the past few weeks traffic issues have been in the forefront of public discussion, especially after it was said that the long line of vehicles in almost all of the major roads was a matter of perception, rather than reality. Opposition leader Simon Busuttil on Sunday said that the amount of exhaust fumes emanating from stationary vehicles was causing health problems.

Mr Mizzi said that it is vital new methods of transport are sought as a way to decrease congestion on our roads.

The new purposely designed catamaran, 'Top Cat 1', has a passenger capacity of 160.

Departures are €1.50 while a return fare is €2.80.

There are reduced fair for senior citizens as well as children. Commuter options are also available, making travelling for commuters considerably cheaper. Options include weekly, three month, six month and yearly options. Worthy of note is that in the Valletta Three Cities route, the Barakka elevator fare is also included in the ferry ticket fare. The ferry arrives to its destination within minutes.

The service is run by the Zammit Tabonas, owners of Captain Morgan Cruises.

Turning to the issue of the new bus lane in Pieta, extensively reported by this newsroom, he said that he acknowledges the fact that some residents are against the project and said that the government is doing its best to find solutions to problems that may arise as a result of these projects.