Concern over delay to summer bus schedule

The tourism industry is “very concerned” about the delay in Arriva’s summer bus schedule. Malta’s image is damaged by having large groups of tourists waiting for long periods at bus stops, according to Malta Hotels and Restaurants Association president Tony Zahra. With Malta experiencing a huge influx of tourists each summer, the new time-table featured greater frequencies, later operating hours and some new routes to meet demand. It was supposed to be operational from today but the transport company became embroiled in an industrial dispute after drivers complained about their new rosters. Following a conciliation meeting with the General Workers’ Union, Arriva agreed last Thursday to postpone introducing its summer schedule until June 30 so it can devise a new drivers’ roster. Drivers who spoke to Times of Malta last week complained they would be forced at times to work 14-hour days with 90-minute breaks, which were too short for them to go home and spend time with their families. Arriva did not have enough drivers to cover all routes, the drivers claimed. The company has advertised in Spain and the UK for drivers willing to work May to October. Mr Zahra said the MHRA would try...