The PN this evening presented a motion in parliament calling on the government to kick-start a parliamentary debate on the ever growing traffic problem.

The PN made reference to one of the PL’s main electoral pledges that it would solve the traffic problem if elected to office.

It said that the government had pledged it would implement a National Traffic Management plan, introduce a unit which coordinates road works, and improve the public transport service.

But instead, the PN said, the situation went from bad to worse.

It also noted that the government is not offering any alternatives to address the problem which is leading to more cars on our roads.

“Since the situation is having a negative impact on businesses, our health, the environment, productivity while also leading to road rage incidents and an increase in traffic accidents, the PN is requesting that a debate on the situation is held,” the PN said.

It has also called on the government to address the problem seriously, advising the government to start off by acknowledging that the situation is not a perception but a reality.

The PN also urged the government to emerge with an effective and holistic plan to deal with traffic.

The motion was presented by PN deputy leader for parliamentary affairs Mario de Marco and shadow minister for the environment, energy and transport Marthese Portelli.

House to discuss PN motion this evening

Meanwhile, PN leader Simon Busuttil welcomed the fact that Prime Minister Joseph Muscat this evening accepted the PN’s request to debate the traffic problem. Earlier, government MPs hit out at Dr Busuttil during question time for presenting a motion without offering any alternative to the traffic problem. It was agreed by both sides of the House that no vote on the motion will be taken today however. The debate went on despite the fact that the minister responsible for transport - Joe Mizzi - was not present for the debate as he is abroad.