PN welcomes safeguards on Arriva jobs

Opposition MP Tony Bezzina welcomed the government's assurances over the future of Arriva employees and called on government to ensure that these guarantees are included in any new agreement with the new operators.

Yesterday, transport minister Joe Mizzi announced that Arriva handing over operations to Transport Malta on 1 January .

In reaction to the opposition's criticism for leaving Arriva employees in a 'precarious and uncertain' position, Mizzi said that not only will the new transport system absorb all current Arriva employees but that "more drivers will be required."

In a statement issued today, the opposition spokesperson said that public transport was an essential service, adding "any increases in the the number of buses and routes should not translate in an increase of bus fares or subsidies paid for by the taxpayer."

Bezzina added that government should also ensure that the selection of new operator is carried out transparently.