164 people lost their driving licence in 2018 following the introduction of a points system which penalised erring drivers, Transport Minister Ian Borg said today.

Borg said that this is a significant number. He said that the system was not winning the government any votes, but that if it saves even one life then it is a very good initiative.

He said that the most important thing is for people to be more careful on the road.

Transport Malta, the Red Cross, the Malta Road Safety Council and others set up a stand in front of Parliament in Valletta to raise awareness about the dangers of drunk driving, while handing out single use breathalyzer tests.

Minister Ian Borg said that three entities, among others such as the Civil Protection Department, hospital and police staff, are busy year round assisting in incidents. The stand is part of Transport Malta and the Road Safety Council’s campaign for road users to be prudent during the festive period.

During this season, some people tend to drink and drive, the Minister explained, thus posing a risk to themselves, their passengers and others. He said that alternative modes of transport, such as public transport and private companies are available for use.

He also said that Transport Malta’s enforcement section has been, and will continue to perform checks on the public transport and private transport companies to ensure that the drivers themselves are also responsible.

He also announced that a private aviation company which had flown the Brazillian national football team, donated a shirt signed by the team to Transport Malta, which in turn was auctioned off. The proceeds were handed over to Simon Schembri’s Blue Light Foundation. The donation amounted to €2,000.