Updated | Mizzi says new bus fares will be ‘affordable’

Bus fares will 'remain affordable' - Mizzi

Transport minister Joe Mizzi has not denied a rise in bus fares as government remains enagegd in negotiations with Autobuses Urbanos de Leon (Alesa), for a new public transport service that will be financed in part by subsidies rising to €29 million a year.

"I will ensure that they will be affordable to everyone," Mizzi said when quizzed on speculation that the new service will require higher bus fares to be sustainble.

Asked about guarantees on the employment of some 700 workers formerly engaged with Deutsche Bahn subsidiary Arriva Malta, whose service was nationalised by the State in January 2014, Mizzi suggested they would remain employed.

"If the bus fleet increases", referring to the need for more buses to service the Maltese route network, "it will be Mlatese drivers who will be employed."

In a press statement earlier today, the government said that speculation on the negotiated subsidy with Alesa were as yet "premature".

The ministry for transport and infrastructure is currently considering a much lower offer than what was put forward during the expression of interest phase by other bidders. Arriva, as the previous operator, had requested a €45 million subsidy to continue operations in Malta.

“The aim is to have an efficient public transport service that meets people’s needs, including an increase in routes,” the ministry said. “Therefore it is important to balance the economic and social aspects to prevent a repeat of the negative impression left by Arriva.”