The public transport reform is long overdue. There have been so many failed, half-hearted so-called ‘reforms’ that the public has understandably become wary whenever yet another reform is announced, AD chairperson Arnold Cassola said.

“While there are various positive aspects in the latest reform, should this go through, there are various issues which must be dealt with for the reform to be of benefit to the public. What is the reason for allowing Euro III buses aged 15 years and under when a new company will be taking over the operation of the new service? Bus fares must reflect the quality of service offered. It should first be demonstrated that the new operators of the public transport system will improve the quality of service.

“Only then and on the basis of the service offered should new fares be announced. These should present a variety of options such as one-, three- and five-day tickets to enable those who are unable to afford forking out what for them is a relatively substantial sum of money at one go.

“The proposed two-hour ticket would mean that most commuters will pay for a two-hour trip when most trips, even if one makes use of more than one bus, are less than one hour long.”

Ralph Cassar, AD spokesperson on industry, energy and transport added: “Investing in public transport is an act of social and environmental responsibility. It does not make sense to eliminate all subsidies at the stroke of a pen and put the burden on the consumer. The government does offer subsidies to low cost airlines and other activities. Phasing out subsidies on public transport does not make sense, except for right-wing ‘the market rules’ politicians. Only when the government declares all subsidies it pays can a serious discussion as to which are absolutely necessary and which are too little, too much or unnecessary be held.

“Not so long ago large firms employing hundreds of people used to provide transport for their employees. This benefit has been discontinued in the vast majority of factories. Maybe it is once again time to require firms of a certain size to provide transport, thereby reducing congestion, especially in the rush hours.”