“Alternattiva Demokratika recognises the need to regulate parking in Valletta and various localities, and although a new system has already been introduced here in Valletta and we think it was a change in the right direction, we believe that this can still be improved on considerably,” said AD chairman Harry Vassallo at a press conference held outside Hastings Gardens yesterday.

AD is proposing that over the next five years, residents’ parking schemes are introduced in more and more areas, particularly those areas that suffer from incoming traffic due to heavy retail and tourist business in the area.

“We want Malta to reach a high level in urban mobility, and facilities in such a way that allows family expenses to be reduced, and they are offered more choices such as car-pooling, and pay-per-use car options,” he said.

AD is also proposing that over the short term government removes all taxes and licences on low-powered motor-cycles to encourage more people to adopt this mode of transportation, as well as a nation wide expansion of special lanes, in which motor-cycles can we driven.

“Both these proposals should encourage people, particularly youth, to adopt this mode of transportation, which will become both safer and more affordable. The second proposal we are making that can be implemented in the short term is the introduction of free weekly and monthly bus passes for all those who do not possess a driving licence or are willing to give-up their driving licence,” said Dr Vassallo.

“Over the next five years it is vital that government embarks on a serious expansion and upgrading of public transport. We believe that this should be done primarily by a process of liberalisation, that includes not only public buses but of all other controlled means of transport like taxis. There is no reason why public transport should remain in the hands of a private monopoly. Competition will improve the sector considerably. It would then be government’s role to ensure that the service is adequate and affordable. Unprofitable routes will have to be subsidised,” said Dr Vassallo.