Updated: Coach driver beaten, White taxis pick up passengers, Marsa blocked

Martin Cassar

Jul 18th 2008, 21:55

I hope that we the tax payers don't end up paying for all the dameges done by this bunch of criminals!. dr Gatt take note

Francesca Portelli

Jul 18th 2008, 16:03

calm down ppl

Ruth MIZZI

Jul 18th 2008, 15:48

Mr Martinelli,
I know exactly what I"m talking about as I live in France and have seen with my own eyes what my message entails!! I think on the other hand you should brush up your history ... For info, the 14th July is a national holiday in France - to be exact "La Prise de la Bastille"!!! and having been part of the diplomatic corps for a number of years, I KNOW EXACTLY what goes on !!! Satisfied?!?!

Ramon Mizzi

Jul 18th 2008, 12:34

Reading this article makes me DIRESPECT with a passion these obnoxious, undisciplined, arrogant and most of all IGNORANT Bus Drivers. These drivers, who embrace crimal acts, should be arraigned to court as this strike showed us, WE NEED A LIBERALIZED public transport as our current on can be easily considered to be amoung THE WORST in the WORLD. As Maltese, we should STAND UP to any mediocre public service, after all, it's kinda a face of our island to travellers to visit our shores.

patrick bongailas

Jul 17th 2008, 14:10

well done austin gatt...hope lawrence gonzi give a good lesson to whom took the law in his hands... for sure these people dont desserve to be in charge of driving our kids to school !

Andrew Grech

Jul 17th 2008, 09:57

What a bunch of losers

I would simply remove all their licences, rewrite a new contract and let them reapply under different conditions. those who were involved in the scuffles can go straight to the ETC offices.

White taxi drivers also own black taxis, new bus owners also have coaches (and some have swapped their engines), mixed fuel, dangerous driving, rude and ignorant - let's start afresh.

the ADT needs to get its act together and enforcement needs to become a MUST without any external negative pressure. Weldone to Autin Gatt for keeping strong.

J. Martinelli

Jul 17th 2008, 02:05

@ Ruth Mizzi, A Daley, J. Borg, Joe Galea - we know you from other blogs.

Put a sock in it!
You just don't know what you are talking about.

Mandy Pace - get your spell checker updated

Michael Debono - Regarding your opening sentence - does your dictionary list the word 'dignity'? You'd better look it up.

J Caruana - I suppose you weren't at the New Heathrow terminal when the state-of -the-art section was opened with much pomp. Now that's being stuck - not to mention your luggage which may still be on its way to you now! Strikes happen all over - France, Italy both had airport strikes - did the workers care?

Nicole Callus - and I would imagine that you were ecstatic with the bus service before Malta joined the EU ?!

M Schembri - What you imply is that a few broken heads, bloody police batons and possibly one or two dead would make a better flick? That would really be good tejatrin, wouldn't it? Go take a pill!

Isn't this typical? All of a sudden everyone has become a prime minister, a minister of justice, a police commissioner, etc...!

S Coleiro

Jul 16th 2008, 23:20

This is crazy! Not the kind of thing you expect to happen in Malta! What do they think they're doing , keeping the whole country hostage? And what about the tourists who are only staying for a couple of days? They won't even get a chance to visit anywhere , and even the coach drivers are not so willing to do their job now , because they're scared of the crazy bus drivers. Imagine what material losses - shops in Valletta / Sliema , Museums in Valletta , Msida , etc.. And tour firms will probably also have to pay Malta's visitors some compensation for this. I mean , imagine , you're on holiday , a coach is taking you somewhere, and all of a sudden you're attacked by crazy screaming people?
I don't know how I will ever feel safe again riding in the buses of people who have shown themselves to be violent and uncivilised. It's just scary.

M Borg

Jul 16th 2008, 22:29

Police shall be instructed to arrest all the violent protestors, and prosecute them. If guilty, their licence shall be revoked, their vechile confiscated and they shall be given at least a suspended sentence, beside a hefty fine.

That's what happened with other citizens who broke the law, such as HUNTERS. Or there are two ways and two measures?!

John Rizzo, kindly take note!

Stephen Borg cardona

Jul 16th 2008, 20:08

The question is whether or not the Govt is going to tolerate the violence and the initial impression is that illadvisedly the answer would appear to be yes...........

agrech

Jul 16th 2008, 17:58

It is important that these people be given a clear signal that no one has approved of their tactics. The general public is against their violent strike and that such insubordination is not and will never be accepted by the public in Malta.

I'm sure that Victor Spiteri and his group have learned a good lesson.

marisa attard

Jul 16th 2008, 17:47

So! black taxis can function whilst white ones cannot. Some black taxi owners also own white ones but they are working with the black! U mela! Who wants to go to wifey at the end of the month empty-handed? Chi non lavora non fa l'amore!!

Denis Catania

Jul 16th 2008, 17:30

@Andrew Borg Cardona
Austin Gatt has a job and he is doing it. Doing it well.
The police comm has a job too. He isn't doing it.

joe borg

Jul 16th 2008, 16:44

Please stop shouting or you will wake up Lawrence Gonzi and Johnny zo.They have to be fit since one has to go abroad and eat with someone and the other has a friendly conversation with an african immigrant

Rodnick Abdilla

Jul 16th 2008, 16:41

Dr.Gonzi These are The Par idejn sodi you was talking about before election ?

I compare your hands with Gianluigi buffon hands how safe they are 1 triumphed with his country and you Dr Lorry Gonzi destroyed our's

Alfred Farrugia

Jul 16th 2008, 16:01

Are the members of the transport Federation carrying their ID cards? Can the police check whether the people who are committing violence and other criminal acts are members of the Federation or not? Has the transport Federation provided a list of its members to the authorities?

m farrugia

Jul 16th 2008, 15:46

Just returned from the beach. While these striking drivers are creating havoc in Valletta, Luqa and Marsa, St Pauls Bay, Ghadira and Golden Sands are flooded with rented cars. Prosit keep it up bus and taxi drivers. Car rental garages should be very happy and tourists happier since they got the opportunity to travel and explore our island at their own pace. Maybe instead of losing their tempers in this stiffling heat in Valletta, striking drivers should take the opportunity to take a dip at one of these beaches with these tourists, it's much more refreshing.

Charles Camilleri

Jul 16th 2008, 15:46

Dr.Gonzi the police force have proved to be helpless. So why don't you engage the army too. We cannot let these people run the show any longer. The credibility of the Government to govern is at stake. The people are expecting protection to go on with their normal work without any threats from these thugs.

A Daley

Jul 16th 2008, 15:36

This situation had been brewing for a very long time now.

This is what happens when the Government promises one thing to one sector and another thing to another sector, when both of are related.

WHERE ARE THE COMPANIES?

WHERE ARE THE NEW BUSES AND SUBSIDIES?

WHERE IS THE NEW ERA OF STATE OF THE ART BUS SERVICE, promised in 1990?

Kollox tar mar-rih.

THE PROBLEM in Malta is the present administration.

PN promised a lot, they deliver very little and when things go wrong, there is always a plausible excuse for their failures!

What is happening now is nothing when compared with the problems created by the coming budget, with hefty taxes and NO dosh increase!

What would the Government do then? Tell us that strikes are not in fashion any more?

Or admit, that it had been taking 50% of the population for a very expensive ride, in the region of 3.4 billion Euros in National Debt?

James Sultana

Jul 16th 2008, 15:31

Poeple will soon "wake up " to the reality that this issue has nothing to do with full liberalisation ...route buses will still be operated by the same owners when the new tender is issued, the minibuses and taxis new permits will take longer to come.

The TRUE REASON BEHIND ALL THIS IS NOT THE BENEFIT OF THE CITIZENS : its a show of force between Dr. Austin and Dr. Gonzi. The former wants to show that he has the power to do what the PM takes a "cautious approach" at (how many times we were promised reforms by Gonzi and ended up in half-baked measures, such as a medical service which John Dalli calls "part-time" ?)

The PM was away, the vice-PM was away ... and Dr. Gatt went all out on his own. Now he brought the situation to one where no-one will give up... and so its up to the PM to decide whether to use the force to the full including arrests, tear-gas and batons to stop it all and make it safe for the rest of the citizens or to back up from Gatt`s decisions and appear a loser. Prosit Agostino Pio !!!

Gordon Camenzuli

Jul 16th 2008, 15:28

What's happening in Malta right now is big shame to our country and its surely not doing any good to boosting tourism.

On an other note, are these people who go to "church" every Sunday morning or? Their actions are humiliating, coward and uncivilised.

Franco Farrugia

Jul 16th 2008, 14:09

I would like to see people calming down if they had a dearly departed awaiting burial.

"The funeral of XX which was due to be held today, had to be cancelled due to the current strike action. Funeral arrangements will be announced later." - Today's THE TIMES.

josette mifsud

Jul 16th 2008, 13:57

Thanks bus,mini van and taxi drivers for making me feel so much younger! No miracle creams, diets and gym sessions have had a big effect on how old I feel like these Barberians running in our streets. I went back to my youth, when we were afraid of all the trouble on the streets by these antics..

George Curmi

Jul 16th 2008, 13:47

A number of people posting here have tried to politicize this issue. This is NOT a political matter; it is a national issue that affects all. So, if you are unwilling or unable to comment without political prejudice - SHUT UP!

These thugs have committed many crimes, beaten people, hijacked and intentionally damaged vehicles, held passengers against their will (kidnapping), and broken a sack load of traffic rules with their blockades because they want to maintain the status quo - a monopoly over a public service that they been unwilling to provide - a reliable, clean, and safe public transport system. Unfortunately, the police have been too slow in arresting and locking up as many of them as possible. These thugs have a lot of nerve. Taxpayers have been heavily subsidising them for years, and this is their thanks.

To the Minister and the Prime Minister. By now, it should be quite clear to you that the nation is behind you on this issue, and that whatever reasonable action you take will have the full support of an overwhelming majority of the people. The old Maltese saying goes "Il-ftira shuna tajba." Go after them.

A Aquilina

Jul 16th 2008, 13:44

Monopolies create monsters and now these monsters are protecting their empire. Just cut them down to size. Liberalise the entire transport sector with immediate effect; buses, taxis, mini-buses, etc. Open up all licences as from today and approve any applications on receipt. There is no longer any place for monopolies. In addition discontinue all subsidies as the public transport service has never improved despite continuous increases in subsidies and fares whenever their costs increase. These past 2 days are living proof that many (but by no means all) transport sector workers are bullies. They are so often rude to their customers; now they are making sure that their customers as well as the rest of the population really suffer not only through their strike but also through their bullying. Come on Austin, Gonzi and co, show them who is in comand.

mark duffy

Jul 16th 2008, 13:28

@Ramon Zammit - Re Italian forces they would just raise their white flags as per normal, send in the SAS that will sort them out.

Mary Muscat

Jul 16th 2008, 13:24

Calm down, with this heat and hot heads ruling the roads? My baby daughter had a hospital check-up this morning, which I couldn't postpone as it would mean waiting another six months to get a decent slot. Apart from finding several arterial roads blocked, I almost crashed four times head-on with cars coming up wrong way because they couldn't pass from elsewhere and decided to create their own traffic laws, not to mention arriving late at hospital (with the usual parking headache). It was like driving in a minefield.

Victor Buttigieg

Jul 16th 2008, 13:19

Hon Minister Carm Mifsud Bonnici should resign immediately. The situation is getting out of control!!!!!!! WHERE IS THE POLICE FORCE?

Mandy Pace

Jul 16th 2008, 13:05

PM should resign. This is an exaptable situation.

Mario Muscat

Jul 16th 2008, 13:00

Well done to Dr Austin Gatt , please keep firm and do not give in 1 inch. Malta is united . These thugs should be cleared off the streets .

Mario Gauci

Jul 16th 2008, 12:59

All well and good Dr. Borg Cardona but with all due respect this gets more like a national emergency by the hour.

E. Azzopardi

Jul 16th 2008, 12:35

These people are punishing those same citizens who are subsiding them, who are partly paying their salaries!! Just work out the massive bill of all lost man hours, business etc etc and send it to them. Even if we have to go to the EU Court. If they cannot pay, they have to sell the buses and they go and register and when they find a job cut half their pay to keep on paying.
We know this is a democracy but there are limits. This does not happen in a democracy.
In two to three weeks time we shall be licking these self inflicting wounds!!!
Smart Island my foot.

Charlie Aquilina

Jul 16th 2008, 12:31

please where is the PM. ? I think that this is going to far now ,who is running the country?

John Debattista

Jul 16th 2008, 12:29

Gonzi we want action against these thug not Bla Bla lets hope you wouldn't give in to these so called THUGS after all this trouble. Note take their licence from them now Take action in afew days time every thing will be back to normal and than maybe we will have a decent transport system,

Ruth MIZZI

Jul 16th 2008, 12:26

Where was the PM during this rampage?? Got the answer for you!!
He was calmly sitting down behind the French President in the VIP stand, taking in the breathtaking views of Paris on a bright sunny 14th July whilst assisting to the Military Parade on the Champs Elysées. And to add insult to injury, assisting afterwards to the famous Garden Party at the Presidential Palace ... sipping champagne with all the dignitaries ....
Well as the saying goes: When the cat's away, the mice will play!!!! My poor little rock, what's to become of it?!?!? (Sigh!! :/)

Michael Debono

Jul 16th 2008, 12:21

Reference hearses monopoly. Is there any law providing that corpses can only be transported to the cemetary by traditional hearses.?
Alternatively could a corpse be transported on any vehicle, car, van, truck, cart etc to the cemetery?
Curious to know. I emphasize my question whether there is any law in this respect.
If there is no law, then I feel it is easy to circumvent the demands of the hearse owners.
Of course we would have to get used to other ways of transporting corpses to the cemetery, such as a purposely decorated van.
Tradition should not reduce us to become slaves of rapacious people who thrive on corpses for their living.
On public transport. It is the bus owners that are striking not the drivers, though owners may be the drivers.
The public transport cannot fear any liberalization. There does not appear to be a monopoly. There are so many bus owners that increasing the number of buses will not solve any problem once there are enough to service the needs of the country and it is the government that decides on the number of buses to run the daily service
Only discipline is required.

B Sant

Jul 16th 2008, 12:14

we will let the govt face them agreed but should he give in then it should be accompanied by mass resignation... al the country is behind the goverment so we urge him not to give up

Dr Emmy Bezzina,LL.D.,B.A.,Dip.S.Th.,

Jul 16th 2008, 12:13

The State of Anarchy continues...Violent Incidents are occurring...our People are well-nigh imprisoned in their localities...some even hinted we should go back to horse-driven karozelli,others to utilise bicycles and the Ferry Boats considering we are blessed with a current sea-worthy weather.However,our State is not prepared for such eventualities...the Police do not have basic equipment to control the hooliganistic agressive path - the People have no idea where our Armed Forces are: what is preoccupying is where are our Secret Services,our Head of Security who surely had to have some sort of tipping that such an eventuality was imminent.Minister Gatt stated he had no idea or premonition as to what was about to occur,the People were under the impression that this related to the Hearses Issue only,but obviously there is more than meets the eye.Government must remain firm: NO NEGOTIATIONS until THE SITUATION returns to normal and people are not being made to endure more inconveniences.This is costing the Country much and indirectly many times much over.Surely the aggressors cannot by any stretch of civilized imagination be made at any stage to benefit even minimally out the chaotic confusion provoked by them.Liberalization signifies Competitive Freedom :ALPHA!

angelo camilleri

Jul 16th 2008, 12:09

two questions if i may ask, what are the police doing standing in the sun watching these thugs breaking the law, do they not know that its a traffic offence to park on a roundabout, and yet they are allowed to do it, second question is, where is the prime minister, we saw a lot of him on tv before the election and now he dont seem to careabout the suffering his people are going through.
can someone answer please?

Louis Galea

Jul 16th 2008, 12:06

SHAME! SHAME! SHAME! We Citizens have the sacrosant right to be protected by the State's Forces. That' s what they are there for to SERVE & PRTOECT US. So what are we waiting for justice to be implemented against these Anarchists! These three days of disruption towards the country and it's economy by a bunch of irresposible, hot headed, ignorant, self conceited, uneducated, antisocial, arrogant thugs and bullies has got to STOP right now. Who the hell do these guys think they are? Nobody is above the Law in this country. So be it. Show these thugs that the days of anarchy have long been over and done with. Patience is a virtue, but now it is been stretched to far. The people are now fed up with this farce. It's about time the Authorities concerned to T A K E A C T I O N and put a stop to this nonsense.

Chris Bezzina

Jul 16th 2008, 12:04

Hej parents! These are the same people who carry our children to school every morning. As from the coming scholastic year, I have teamed up with a couple of parents to take our children to school (we will take it in turns) with our respective private car.
It is safer for the children (usually they are 24 -at times even more- in a van driven at excessive speed) and avoid listening to foul language used by the driver. For the safety of my children I am ready to do this sacrifice. Above all, if several parents do the same, this would be a sign to minibus drivers that we parents are not happy with the service they offer. Organize team transport - for the good of your children!!

Joseph V Borg

Jul 16th 2008, 12:04

This is going too far now. The powers that be should take a firmer stand and take control of the situation before it escalates; citizens demand the upholding of the laws before more harm is done. It is crysrtal clear that disrespect, in all quarters, is rampant with these thugs.

JVB

Marisa Schembri

Jul 16th 2008, 12:00

Ah so some black taxi owners are also white taxi owners. In Maltese we say 'Ma dahalx mil-bieb u dahal mit-tieqa', roughly translated meaning that not entering from the door one enters from the window but the end result is the same. The result is that income is coming in anyway.Ha!Ha!Ha! very funny. Why? because at the end of the month these people have to face their families with funds in order to keep going like everybody else not empty pockets!
Italian buses strike every two months but they state the times when they strike so people have time to make alternative arrangements and they DO NOT BLOCK ANY ROADS.

Corinne Vella

Jul 16th 2008, 11:59

Sandro Pace: The government is not a 'he'. Chickening out would be going soft. You are caught between a desk and a chair. Time to make some sense.

apgrech/ K Grech: This is not a prime ministerial matter. I'd be bothered if he thought it were, rather than seeing to prime ministerial things.

Stanley Mifsud

Jul 16th 2008, 11:59

@ABC - I find it strange you are taking this so lightly. You acted differently when hunters protested.

"calm down a little" - are you serious? If coaches were boats it would look like a scene out of some pirates movie. The only set back being that there is no hero to save the day. The police force has been too weak these last three days. I would understand a subdued approach if these people were just causing traffic jams but beating up people, stealing vehicle keys, taking over coaches (at times with passengers on board) and forcing people off coaches should not be taken lightly. Btw would like your expert opinion on this - can the latter actions (stopping a coach with passengers on board, holding them against their will and prevent them from continuing their journey) be construed as a form of kidnapping?

I agree with you that the PM should not dignify these people with a response but the rest of the nation deserves some reassurances from him. We are witnessing what at face value appear criminal acts. If anything the PM should give us reassurance that, as you state, violence will ot be tolerated.

Matthew Borg

Jul 16th 2008, 11:56

Police should really make the other side of Aldo Moro accessible to traffic going towards Luqa by restricting two lanes in that direction and two lanes in the direction of Valletta. If you can't beat the fools, do what you can do to overcome them in a different manner!

Charles Carabott

Jul 16th 2008, 11:54

Will someone be kind enough to tell the public who the hearse owners who are causing so much damage to this country are, so that we will have the option to boycott their custom when the need arises? CC

Peter P. Desira

Jul 16th 2008, 11:53

@ABC
I tend to disagree with you. No, it's not a ministerial matter - not when the minister is Austin Gatt. The whole matter is now a serious national problem and shoud be taken immediately in hand by the PM. My advise is that he should send Austin on a long holiday to Australia or New Zealand, and deal with the problem himself by calling all parties round a table. Austin's macho statements, arrogance (whether perceived or not), and steam rolling style will NEVER bring about a solution. Only a "par idejn soda" can do that.

Kenneth Cassar

Jul 16th 2008, 11:52

Dear Andrew Borg Cardona,

When people start worrying how they are going to get home safely, if they are going to get home at all, that is when tougher measures should be employed. I will only calm down a little when the police, army or whatever remove all the buses blocking the roads, and order the strike to end with immediate effect due to its violent turn, and the arrest of anyone who does not comply.

What are we waiting for...vigilante wars?

C.Briffa

Jul 16th 2008, 11:49

I am astonished how the Federation of Transport can support such an action and why they have not striked for the hike in fuel prices. There's definitely a good reason behind this; the increase in fuel prices will be passed fully to the consumer and not absored by the Federation's members but the liberalisation of the hearses permits would probably touch their members' pockets and make the consumer benefit more!

ALBERT FENECH

Jul 16th 2008, 11:46

It is quite obvious that this calamity has found the Government totally unprepared for any kind of contingency - regardless of the merits or the demerits of the matters in question. It is extremely disturbing to know that in the eventuality of such an emergency, the administration's response has been found totally wanting. Streets and roundabouts are totally blocked, chaos and anarchy rules on the main roads. This is an administrative responsibility to ensure basic services that should keep the airport and the sea port free, and to ensure that chaos and anarchy will not reign. As matters stand now in a number of places, ambulances and fire engines will simply grind to a standstill. The possibility of criminal activity intensifies as most police-persons are otherwise deployed. Therefore, one asks the question - who is running the country? Is it the administration, or is it bus, taxi, hearse and mini bus owners? The answer is quite obvious and the administration has been found wanting and unprepared. On the other hand, the "others" have done their homework well.

O. Grech

Jul 16th 2008, 11:44

Government, please get the army and clear these things (i mean both the buses and their drivers) out of our way once and for all.

Jeffrey Tabone

Jul 16th 2008, 11:39

Abbas is asking our prime minister if WE need some help to calm things down. hehe

J Micallef

Jul 16th 2008, 11:38

@ C. Micallef - Well said!!!
To Minister Gatt - just give these thugs some more rope......

keep up the good work.

j caruana

Jul 16th 2008, 11:36

@ABC

I'm sure that if you were stranded at the airport you would 'calm down a little'. Give us a break.

A Anderson

Jul 16th 2008, 11:33

Reading all of this at a distance - its so appalling to know that such people even exist in Malta! I would have thought Malta was past that stage. Clearly a strong political stance is needed here. What is happening is reflecting badly on Malta on every front.

vanessa bonnici

Jul 16th 2008, 11:31

This is just ridiculous - they do have every right to strike but to deliberately stop the whole island and then to resort to violence. The Government needs to get them off the roads NOW - their vehicles should be towed and impounded and they should be arrested. This is not a strike this is a definite sabotage of our island!!!!!!

Malcolm Zerafa

Jul 16th 2008, 11:30

This aggressive behaviour has become unacceptable and has to stop, FULLSTOP.
Why Malta should be held hostage by a bunch of selfish and unreasonable individuals....?

In my opinion these people who are resorting to criminal measures, should have their licences revoked for good or should we trust them again with the transport of our children or elderly once the dust has settled?

Malcolm Zerafa

Jul 16th 2008, 11:30

This aggressive behaviour has become unacceptable and has to stop, FULLSTOP.
Why Malta should be held hostage by a bunch of selfish and unreasonable individuals....?

In my opinion these people who are resorting to criminal measures, should have their licences revoked for good or should we trust them again with the transport of our children or elderly once the dust has settled?

Gavril Flores

Jul 16th 2008, 11:30

@ABC

At this point I do not agree that its just a ministerial matter. There are also effects on tourism and health (people who miss appointments at hospital because there is no public transport and extra people at mortuary room) at least... but maybe the pm is ' not acting', not to touch his sacred image built during election...

Nicole Callus

Jul 16th 2008, 11:30

All these complaints.........
People in Malta are getting what they deserve now! Before Malta's the EU referendum, this was happening across Europe and nobody took heed of it because PN said that it "wouldn't happen here". Now it is, was Sant right!?!?!
But anyway, they made a fool of everyone. I am not sympathizing at all, weren't most of the buses sporting PN and EU flags before. This is what was chosen when the yes vote was given to the EU. Are the people who terrorized European people who came to Malta to warn of the problems caused by membership happy now. They shouldn't show their face in public.
YOU MADE YOUR BEDS. NOW LIE IN THEM!!!!
FLIMKIEN KOLLOX POSSIBLI. The best joke ever told!

Josanne Cassar

Jul 16th 2008, 11:29

So now they've beaten up a driver of a coach carrying foreign athletes! Nice way to promote Brand Malta. No wonder ppl are asking who's actually running the country...if there isn't an immediate serious clampdown on this violence, it's only going to get worse. Or do the police only show their might against those who are defenceless?

david farrugia

Jul 16th 2008, 11:23

where are the police? just imagine striking workers banging on the door of 10 Downing street, or a striking worker taking the keys of a coach from a british soldier and then ordering him and passengers to go down off the coach before breaking windscreen

N.Spagnol

Jul 16th 2008, 11:22

The license of those drivers arrested due to violence should be revoked and their conduct marked with this incident as well. ADT you should start by offering their license to any serious interested polite and perhaps educated driver.

One driver was arguing that he cannot cope with the expenses, he can always quit why shall i the tax payer pay more tax to support his job.

Francis Bonello

Jul 16th 2008, 11:22

If the Minister responsible for law and order is not capable to keep law and order in tthe country, he should resign immediately. Where is "Serhan il-mohh"?

Mandy Buhagiar

Jul 16th 2008, 11:21

Are these thugs the same people who drive our kids to and from school every day ? Remove monopolies NOW !

george borg

Jul 16th 2008, 11:21

out of control now.......... im sorry for Austin.......his arrogant approach left him struggling alone !......wers the PM? PRES? MINISTER FOR JUSTICE ??....even other ministers.....guess they all are aware of Austin arrogancy !......
@borg cardona...
all malta is suffering...hallik mill its 'a ministerial matter ' !

Anthony Muscat

Jul 16th 2008, 11:21

Get them out of the way. Federation drivers have a right to protest but they do not have the right to dictate to others what to do. If Minister Gatt declared that such actions are illegal, then I expect that the appropriate actions are taken. The law should be equal for all and all the time with no exceptions. Ultimately, this all shows that members of the federation are only good at bullying and are not willing to face the challenge of liberalisation. It's about time that they pull up their socks and get down to provide an efficient service. If they are not capable of standing up for the challenge, then they are not fit for the job. So either take it or leave it - others will surely take the challenge.

s.parnis

Jul 16th 2008, 11:18

The Police need to remove any driver blocking traffic from his bus, mini van or taxi and drive or tow the respective vehicle to a secure parking area which should be surrounded by the Armed Forces.

The right to strike is sacrosant however using their vehicles as "weopons" in this intimidating fashion is illegal.

mary buhagiar

Jul 16th 2008, 11:15

where is the commisioner of the police so he can give orders to the police to handle these guys in a different manner. it is disgusting to let these strikers to go up the steps of castille as if nothing happens. I don"t think the commissioner of the police is doing enough to stop this arrogance that"s going on.I remember in 1986 when we went to valletta to protest about the water shortage, there the policeman acted different hitting us with the "lembuba" and I recall very clearely there was a lawyer and the police opened his head hitting him with the lembuba and he was doing nothing just watching the protestors.I hope the commissioner of police wakes up and take action before it goes out off hands

Fred Attard

Jul 16th 2008, 11:14

This situation shows how unprepared Malta is with contingency plans. We have a CIVIL Protection Unit which mostly deals with heavy rains, when they happen and we see their head on all media directing traffic or to appeal for funds & donations & sending containers with supplies when earthquakes etc unfortunately hit other countries. He's nowhere seen transporting our elderly to hospitals or distributing water to the thousands of motorists stuck in traffic jams dehydrating in this heat ! Why can't for example our Civil Protection, Police & Army secure the old Airport Terminal & get in-bound & outbound air passengers in & out of there? We are very unprepared in Malta and this is serious!

Joe Galea

Jul 16th 2008, 11:11

It's hilarious how this government handles situations like this...basta dahhalna fil-PFP. And he is not able to control a small crowd of thugs.

What the heck, Gozni is in Paris having a good time there for free from our taxes. Why should he bother of what is happening here? Where are the other Ministers?

This country is run by a bunch of ball-less incompetents.

Etienne Mallia

Jul 16th 2008, 11:11

It is the right of every human being to work. This morning i was not allowed to go to my place of work since the road leading to Handaq was closed. I spent 3 hours in traffic and couldn't even perform business errands in Sliema or Valletta.

where shall I send the bill?

D Carabott

Jul 16th 2008, 11:10

In converging with minibuses, taxes, buses etc. (& slowing/blocking whole traffic lanes) are they not breaking the law regarding assembly? I am not a lawyer & stand to be corrected, but if I am not mistaken when more than a limited number of people assemble together in a public place they need a police permit otherwise it is illegal. In convening en masse they are disrupting traffic and making life miserable for law abiding motorists. And the reason: to protect their beloved monolistic positions! Come on: this is 2008 not the early 20th century. It is time for Govenment to act: affirmative action please.

H.Schembri

Jul 16th 2008, 11:08

Taxi & Mini-van drivers are digging their own grave, for if such strike affects tourism badly (be it cruise-liner / english language etc) first and foremost it is them who will feel the pinch of such downfall in this industry.

Philip Cauchi

Jul 16th 2008, 11:07

I agree with Joseph Caruana. Where is the Police Force? Is disturbing public peace against the law? Why are normal people arrested and put into jail for doing so and these thugs not???

Ray de Bono

Jul 16th 2008, 11:02

1. How in a modern EU country are certain things allowed to happen?
2. Where are the Police + Armed Forces?
3. What will be the implications on Brand Malta??
4. Is it not illegal to kidnap a Person off a bus and to block a Street with a vehicle? Was anyone arrested - with all the witnesses around??

Solution: The government should invite other EU transport providers, offer them security to immediately restore transport service in Malta for locals and tourists alike.

Message to Strikers: Get an education! Nobody is above the law! All other business have competition - YOU are not any or special than the rest of us.

R Kerr

Jul 16th 2008, 11:01

I cannot believe all this is happening! I am sure, or at least, I hope that the authorities are thinking about ACTION. Honestly enough I cannot understand how powerful organisations such as UNIONS are just pushing towards this!
What are these human animals on the roads trying to stop, the removal of Monopoly? What are the bus drivers doing? Having a break from their work? Didn't all this start from the hearses liberalisation? Are the 6 owners on the island afraid of competition? Don't tell me they call themselves businessmen!

I am sorry to say, that I cannot trust authorities right now. Unions, Government, Opposition, ATD administrators, first thing that should come to your mind is PEACE and nothing else. But it seems you're thinking otherwise.

Dear drivers, thank god for your physical strength, because it seems that besides that, you don't have anything else up there. You are threatened the PEACE in our country, and mind you it is your daughter's peace, your son's peace, your mother's peace.

You are threatened the little tourist industry we have. The Fisec Players? The English Students? threaten them to threaten our own economy. Well Done!

Andrew Borg-Cardona

Jul 16th 2008, 10:57

Shouldn't we calm down a little? Obviously, the Police will take steps as and when it is operationally necessary or advisable - none of us, frankly, are experts in handling this sort of thing. We don't need the Prime Minister dignifying these thugs with a response - it is a Ministerial matter and Dr Gatt will handle it. Protests happen all the time in liberal countries but violence cannot - and I hope will not - be tolerated.

D.MANGION

Jul 16th 2008, 10:57

Gonzi's "par idejn sodi" are made of foam.

Nigel Balcarres

Jul 16th 2008, 10:57

Only in Malta

Joseph Caruana

Jul 16th 2008, 10:56

WHERE IS THE POLICE FORCE?

Christopher Deguara

Jul 16th 2008, 10:56

Austin Gatt is doing a brilliant job at standing up to these thugs, who also attempted to attack his house two nights ago. With regards to the PM, he was abroad over the weekend (Union of the Mediterranean) and is currently busy with the Palestinian President. What amazes me is the complete absence of Carm Mifsud Bonnici...What is he waiting for to act?

Sergio Galea Vincenti

Jul 16th 2008, 10:56

The vast majority of the Maltese are certainly behind the Government on this matter but our Prime Minister is, unfortunately, not showing the necessary leadership in this crisis. Kudos to Minister Gatt and also to Minister Demarco for his actions yesterday at the airport.

It is expected that swift and determined action to bring all those involved in the incidents to be brought to justice and that the necessary consequences be borne by the Transport Federation: The right to strike carries with it responsibilities but this seems to be a notion lost on many members of the Transport Federation.

Who shall shoulder the burden of the financial and image losses incurred by the tourism and commercial sectors? And, please, no one should mention the impact of strikes in other countries as other countries are larger in terms of territory (and hence a smaller density of population), dependent on various industries and have alternative means of transport which we do not have.

Mifsud D

Jul 16th 2008, 10:54

Maybe Dr Gonzi is attending a ceremony for the Partnership for Peace so that we can help other countries keep peace when they need!!!!. Very well said @M. Schembri...parati u tejatrini!!!

Paul Ostafiehyk

Jul 16th 2008, 10:52

The impact to the environment of this strike may be of interest. Just like the grounding of planes in the US after 9/11 had a positive impact on air quality and the greenhouse effect , the parking of buses and minivans may have a similar effect. Perhaps some data is available from the Unibversity of Malta or elsewhere?
Another point it is the duty of the elected goverment to provide a safe society for us to live in, and if necessarry, use its resources to protect that society and democracy in times of difficulty and unrest. This is not always easy to achieve and is not made easier if the party in power flout election manifesto promises. That aside, the manner in which militants brushed aside the emergency bus service shows that this goverment is not able to safeguard the citizens of Malta in difficult times and would need to call in outside help to restore order if matters worsen. It is time for the ministers concerned to resign and be replaced with leaders of a different calibre.

C. Micallef

Jul 16th 2008, 10:52

There is no room for thugs and bullies in Malta anymore.

Whether you're an arrogant hunter, a careless fireworks manufacturer, a violent policeman or a brutish bus driver - your tactics, vulgarity and disregard of human dignity is not welcome.

Protests are part of democracy but violence and thuggery are not.

You are the same people who hate immigrants for "taking your jobs" and being treated better than you. Well, at this point it seems you deserve that. I'd rather a courteous African driving my bus than a rude Maltese brute.

Your jobs depend on tourism, and yet you are prepared to terrorise tourists. This shows how dumb and short-sighted you all are.

You are afraid of competition because you know that it will force you to actually give a decent service. If you thought the service you offer was decent you wouldn't be so afraid.

With ever-increasing fuel costs, pollution and congestion in our streets, us consumers are constantly wondering what life would be like with an efficient and comfortable public transport service. This is a reminder of how much we need reform and competition.

A. Farrugia

Jul 16th 2008, 10:52

Bring out the army, special police squad and anyone else who can restore order as soon as possible! I appreciate and agree with what the Minister is doing but I think he needs some backing from other members of Government. This is our nation's problem not just Min. Gatt's and the police force cannot be expected to handle this on their own!!!! I can't believe we're letting these people ruin the future of cruise-liner business, English-language schools and tourism in general. Newsflash to these people striking: you may think you're the centre of the universe but Malta is a water-drop in the Mediterranean that can easily be boycotted by tourists for years to come. Apart from all this, it's a shame that people who have lost their loved ones, cannot get "closure" by burying their dead within a reasonable amount of time. I am really angry but I am also really so ashamed of being Maltese right now...........

Alan Meadows

Jul 16th 2008, 10:51

I thought bus drivers were complaining about the cost of diesel!! So why are they wasting money (our subsidies) driving around like lunatics!!

Or is it because they don't use diesel but other adulterated fuels. All the authorities have to do TODAY is wait on a hill and book all the buses that are sprouting black smoke, and take them off the road.

However as all previous correspondents have pointed, these bullies are above the law and have always been so. Unfortunately there are too many UNTOUCHABLES in Malta who intimidate and are beyond the reach of the law. This has to stop or we will sink into anarchy

E Camilleri

Jul 16th 2008, 10:48

Dr. Gonzi / Dr. Gatt..... it's time to ACT!!! We're annoyed. Hope now you will not be afraid when you remove monopoly to white taxis, buses, and red vans! It's time to act! Remove monopolies NOW... and people will approve! Get out the army and confiscate the vehicles, and remove their licences. THIS IS CRIMINAL ACTION........ if NOT then I expect my business to have a MONOPOLY too!!!! You removed monopoly from BENNA, etc, etc,..... now it's time to ACT

Fred Attard

Jul 16th 2008, 10:46

It is absolutely unacceptable that the government allows such bus, minibus drivers to take on our roads law & order into their hands. I am in full support for Minister Gatt for the firm stand he's taking on such matters and to be honest he should be our Prime Minster not sleepy Gonzi. Minister Gatt should be given the full support of his fellow cabinet ministers insted of them hiding in their ministries. Minister Gatt, if you stick to your guns and get Malta rid of these useless, dirty, arrogant thugs we will owe you big time. Why is Minister Carmelo Mifsud Bonnici not getting the Army to support the police to clear these drivers off our roads? Why is Minister Dalli not speaking up on behalf of the thousands of social cases, especially elderly who are suffering endlessly without transport especially the hospital route? Can we keep on living like this on this tiny rock where justic is made with Joe Citizen but the likes of Hunters, Drivers, Building Contractors are free to do what they want as we have a weak leader at the helm? Let's support the only Minister with b*lls - Minister Gatt.

M Borg

Jul 16th 2008, 10:45

Take out the AFM! or are they busy with immigrants?
Imagine what all the tourists on the coach are going to say when the go back to their country..just imagine - tourists write reviews on internet such as, place videos on youtube and talk with their own friends about Malta!

apgrech

Jul 16th 2008, 10:45

Where is the Prime Minister? No press conference or any sign of his existence.

Reading the news it sounds like reading Zimbabwe and not Malta news and our PM is nowhere to be seen or heard.

David Scicluna

Jul 16th 2008, 10:45

How can a chaos like this be allowed? Are we living in Malta or in an anarchy in the middle of nowhere? The police should stop this from happening. Who leads here, the govt or the rioters?

K. Grech

Jul 16th 2008, 10:45

The police and authorities are giving the power to these cowboys as they are clearly showing them they are afraid of them. Where is Dr. Lawrence Gonzi? why do everyone left Austin Gatt on his own to deal with this? Keep it up Dr Gatt. Just one thing pls, let the army out to clear this mess from our roads and let us live in peace.

rpace

Jul 16th 2008, 10:44

The PM is here live and kicking seeing to other work. The PM has confidence in his ministers. The air these last two days has been quite pure until the buses make their rousy rounds. Liberalise all transport immediately and new licences should be subject to eco friendly buses without the illegal horns as one finds in most of europe, otherwise no licence.

mary muscat

Jul 16th 2008, 10:43

If only these striking coach drivers put as much passion into actually doing the work they were supposed to do rather than this dismal state of affairs, then, perhaps the Maltese public would have been more sympathic.

Simon J. Aquilina

Jul 16th 2008, 10:43

Security of the roads must be re-established! One cannot thank the police for all the hard work they are doing but much more needs to be made!! These people are breaking the rights of all the law-abiding Maltese citizens and should be arrested for the criminal acts they have been doing!! It is true that you cannot put everyone under the same umbrella but in this case it is obvious that the majority of the strikers are breaking the law in all ways and manners imaginable to them!! Personally I am hundred percent with the government and do not mind spending hours in the traffic as long as these criminals don’t have it their way! However the basic rights of all the Maltese citizens should be protected in any way possible!!

Joseph Agius

Jul 16th 2008, 10:43

Someone asked 'is this really about the motor hearses issue? well this morning I heard that a motor hearse driver earns around 1500 euro a day! can someone confirm? cause if that is the case no wonder they are striking!

Joseph Galea

Jul 16th 2008, 10:41

Why are these thugs being allowed to flout the law with impunity?

Sandro Pace

Jul 16th 2008, 10:39

If the government cannot guarantee an acceptable flow of traffic, and safety, most importantly to ambulances, he should chicken out and agree. We, the people, are caught between thuggery on one side and feigned toughness on the other.

This government (lead by gonzi) is too soft on everything, and is showing leadership limits, previously masked.

Do not blame the police. They recieve orders. This is all political. The government want it all his way. Liberalisation + also their votes, and hence will not be heavy handed. We are caught in between.

A. Tabone

Jul 16th 2008, 10:35

This situation proves that if Malta is in crisis everyone is on his own. It is amazing how just 400 people can cause all this chaos. AFM ? SAG ? Riot police ? Are they on leave or what ?

A.Cachia

Jul 16th 2008, 10:34

Where is Dr Lawrence Gonzi???????? A country in hijack and the PM is nowhere to be seen.

Alistair Facciol

Jul 16th 2008, 10:32

Malta, it's time to act and restore peace in our roads. I hope the police forces do something because it is now becoming unbearable.

M. Schembri

Jul 16th 2008, 10:31

I think before participating in missions in other countries the army should be utilised to maintain harmony and peace of mind in ours. Imbasta hafna parati u tejatrin !

Corinne Vella

Jul 16th 2008, 10:29

Is all this really about not granting new licences for motor hearses? What happened to the students on the coach? Were they left to make their own way?

Alfred Briffa

Jul 16th 2008, 10:28

Although it's not an easy situation, I am honestly sceptic whether the police are handling this situation in the right strategy!

Ramon Zammit

Jul 16th 2008, 10:28

If Maltese forces are insufficient to thwart these people, why not mobilize Italian forces? Shouldn't the EU give help in these cases?

joseph zammit

Jul 16th 2008, 10:27

Who is leading our country? the goverment or the bus drivers?
Are the police not intended "to serve and protect" us citizens? Wake up Mr. Goverment! The majority of the maltese are with you - STOP subsidising these cowboys from out TAXES

A.Magri

Jul 16th 2008, 10:27

Can we please restore some peace & security in our streets? Where are the riot police?

Simon Sullivan

Jul 16th 2008, 10:26

there is only one way to deal with violence of this nature....

Kevin Attard

Jul 16th 2008, 10:24

When are we going to stop these acts of bullying from people who think they can take the law in their hands?
I was expecting the police to make more arrests - actually arresting all those people who blocked roads with their vehicles (where were the local wardens issuing fines these last days?) and having them all towed away!
We should have deployed the Armed Forces to clear the roads with force if need be.
Police should have stopped, arrested and jailed all people blocking the airport, Valletta Waterfront, Floriana, Valletta etc ...

We should have stopped these irresponsible and violent drivers long time ago ... now it is the right time to show them that we do not approve their manners and violence! Act now Malta!

valerie scicluna

Jul 16th 2008, 10:23

So taxis have been making good business. I hope this does not mean they are overcharging tourists who have found themselves stranded in a foreign country because of their actions. taxis are infamous for their reputation to overcharge in the best of times. imagine what they would do at the moment. police surveillance is essential.

L Galea

Jul 16th 2008, 10:18

Thugs on the ramage again this morning