Public transport handover to take place by January - Mizzi

Proposal for creation of underground transport network still being looked into, transport minister says.

Pieta Mayor Keith Tanti and Minister Joe Mizzi. Photo by Matthew Agius
Pieta Mayor Keith Tanti and Minister Joe Mizzi. Photo by Matthew Agius

Transport Minister Joe Mizzi has confirmed that Malta's public transport operation will be handed over to the new private operators by January 2014.

Mizzi would however not be pinned down on the new fares that will be levied by Spanish operators Autobuses de Leon, but repeated that the fares under the new operators “will remain affordable”.

Speaking to reporters as he inspected works worth €30,000 on the new Pietà church parvis this morning, Mizzi also said that the possibility of an underground transport network “is being investigated” although he did not commit himself on any clear plans.

In his speech, Mizzi explained that works on church parvises in Gudja, Mgarr, Senglea and the church of St. Gregory in Sliema will be starting "in the coming weeks", Mizzi said that he wanted to give priority to “works that had fallen behind during the previous administration”, adding that he would not tolerate unnecessary bureaucracy in public works, and described waiting times of several months for such works to be carried out as unacceptable.

Pietà mayor Keith Tanti praised the ministry and public works department for their committment, whilst also pointing out that this project is entirely locally funded.