Three companies bid to operate Malta’s public transport

Three companies have submitted their bids to operate Malta’s public transport service, according to the Ministry for Transport and Infrastructure.

The call for expression of interest closed today. A fourth bid was submitted after the submission’s deadline expired.

In a statement, the ministry said that the step was for the offers to be evaluated.

“We want the company chosen to provide a sustainable service which addresses the public’s needs and is dependable,” Transport Minister Joe Mizzi said.

He added that the new operator should also consider the economic and social aspects.

The public transport service was nationalised in the beginning of 2014 after Arriva transferred its assets to government.

From information tabled in parliament, it was revealed that in two months, Malta Public Transport Services Ltd made €7,272,138 in operational expenses.

When the national public transport company took over the Arriva Malta operations for a nominal €1, Malta Public Transport Services Ltd absorbed €7.9 million in total debts.