FORUM proposes underground transport system

The government should invest in an efficient underground system rather than spending “huge amounts of money” to subsidise the public transport system, the Forum Unions Maltin (FOR.U.M.) said.

In its proposals for Budget 2015, the 12-union confederation also suggests that no tax road should be paid by motor bikes, thus encouraging more people to buy and use motor bikes.

“The increase in traffic congestion and the lack of available parking spaces are two issues which the Government needs to address urgently,” FORUM president Paul Pace said.

“An underground system would definitely reduce traffic congestions, reduce air contamination and would solve the parking issue.”

Among the proposals to be presented today to the Finance Minister, FORUM also recommends ways of how promote a healthy lifestyle while reducing the financial burden on the health budget in the long term.

“All membership to gyms and other health clinics are to be tax free. Such membership should not be included in the amount taxable so as to encourage more people to be more active in their daily living. Since tax reduction benefits already exists on vehicles which are eco-friendly, this benefit should be extended to any membership which promotes a healthy lifestyle,” Pace said.

Other proposals update those previously made by the organisation and which were not implemented in the previous budget. It also puts forward “innovative proposals which will benefit society and the economy at large”.