Workers must gain from park and ride

I would like to put some suggestions forward on the park and ride scheme, for consideration by the relevant authorities.

Park and ride is only something new to Malta. It is nothing new abroad and exists throughout other European countries. I have came across one in the UK.

What is new and different from other countries about the park and ride project here is the way it will operate. Instead of people being given incentives to use such a scheme they are penalised by having to pay an extra 50 or 60 cents a day for going to work.

The aim of such a system is to have a better and healthier lifestyle and environment. Thus, persons working in Valletta and Floriana must be given an incentive either to use the scheme or go by public transport.

Once workers are paying Lm20 for the Valletta entry permit, logic dictates that they should pay no more than this to use the park and ride project. If the price is more than Lm20, the difference should at least be deducted from income tax.

Also, persons using the scheme should have a fast and frequent shuttle service during peak hours. Public transport should also to have more buses on service at this time. Public transport should be at a reduced fare during peak hours, so as to encourage more persons to use the service.

If we really want a better environment, incentives and tax rebates/credits are a must. But if the idea is to make a profit out of the park and ride project, the concept of the polluter-pays principle is being put aside or not interpreted as it should.

People who park in this project should surely have to pay much less than 50 cents a day to be tempted to use it and preserve the environment. Otherwise, the whole system should be abolished and made on a voluntary basis only.

It is nonsense for workers to pay 50 cents a day just for parking their car in the sun or rain. Once you pay for a service you should receive the best treatment. Therefore this scheme will surely be over-charging people, as for the same price the car park should be secure and under cover, to protect cars from the rain or summer sun. Workplaces should cater for cyclists, as surely if a secure place is available for a bicycle many will use it as a healthy transport system.

But if workers see no gain in using these systems, especially financial incentives, nobody will make use of them.