Bus ride ends in tears

J. Borg

Oct 2nd 2008, 09:06

I totally agree with A. Fenech. Basic English and customer care training for all. "Knowing" how to drive a bus doesn't mean someone is fit to be a public bus driver. Would a restaurant manager consider hiring a waiter who doesn't speak a word of English and doesn't present himself/herself well to clients? Same case here.

Frank Grech

Oct 1st 2008, 15:44

I too wish to comment on the Maltese bus system,being well travelled Malta has a good name until it comes to the bus service,unaceptable service in many ways and incredibly dangerous especially ith the overloading of passengers boxed i like sardines in that heat when it clearly states on the bus the limit of standing pasengers,i thought we were in the 21st century obviously not our bus system.

Aimee Fenech

Sep 19th 2008, 23:45

Outrageous!

If these bus drivers are not good to work anywhere else then they are not suitable to be a bus driver. We need bus drivers that can do their job properly and give good customer service.

In fact I believe they should all be put through an english exam and a customer service course and for those who refuse tough luck look for another job.

Dangerous driving, causing injury to passengers, being rude
all of the above - unacceptable and inexcusable

this driver, if convicted, should be fired on the spot, fined and possibly given community service he should also pay the lady compensation for the injuries he caused

S.Sammut

Sep 19th 2008, 22:32

and the reform or the liberalisation of the transport should have been ready by the end of summer. Tomorrow is the end of summer... Ha ha ha, we are all being taken for a ride.

Alex bugeja

Sep 19th 2008, 18:20

Most of these people end up behind the driving buses because they cannot work anywhere else, but it's not fair to generalize on all bus drivers as there are some of them that give good service. The problem comes from the authorities that like other issues as safety on work and enviorment , driving while sending sms's and others they just don't care. If they are strict against people who cause or can cause accidents like this maybe we can progress on these issues. Mr's Bank's accident should be lesson for all out there.

PETER GRECH

Sep 19th 2008, 17:49

I really hope this case will open a new page. All and I strongly say all Bus drivers should be examined one by one. I am sure that high rate of the drivers suffers from Uncontrollable anger & depression. If i remember well drivers should wear a blue shirt? How many of them use the uniform? How many times you see a bus driver smoking while driving? How many times you see a bus driver on the phone? How many times you see an over speeding bus? Please do something before a tragedy will happen.

Keith Davis

Sep 19th 2008, 17:29

The bus driver should have his licence revoked and also be given a harsh fine.
These prepotent public drivers need to learn a lesson. Many at times when they reach a bus stop they do not even go at the side but remain in the middle blocking traffic. Taxis also drive dangerously fast overtaking anyone anytime even inside tunnels when crossing lanes is illegal! What are the ADT and PTA waiting for to take action on such behaviour?!

Lilia Borissova

Sep 19th 2008, 17:00

I have to disagree with B. Demanuele that it's a minority of the drivers that need to change their manner and attitude. This is a naive and pinkish reply which is a bit unrealistic to put it mildly. Most of them break the law (traffic rules) and that's a fact which can't be denied. The manners issue is the same. The have a stereotype and a jargon which is adoptef by most of them. I would like to see a research being done on the matter and you will see the statistics! I'm sure it woud transpire that the minority are actually the normal drivers. I can be sure since I have used extensively the so called public transport in Malta on a daily basis and on many different lines. The situation in this sector as a qhole is appalling and I don't know why the public puts up with such a disservice!! In the current situation with these unsafe ans arogant drivers I would NOT pay even 0.15 LM for a bus ticket! Maltese shoul become more demanding customers like their Eauropean counterparts are, and for heaven's sake not settle for less!!

G.HOARE

Sep 19th 2008, 15:47

Well bus drivers they are a group of thier own ,they are like formula 1 drivers , this is a soar subject ,i allways say that manners does not cost you nothing , you dont need to go to school to be polite or to smile but i THINK MOST of the bus drivers should go and learn some manners , some of the language is disgusting ,but im concerend about some Maltese people if there is a problem on a bus all you have to do is report him you dont have to take details nothing all you have to do is keep the TICKET i have a habit that when im given the ticket i check it with the details on the bus all the information is on the ticket ,few months back i was concern about the smell of acid on the bus, BUS DRIVER rep well its the battery leacking what can i do ,,,well he didnt do nothing but as i got home i reported him to the Qawra Terminus were they sorted the problem out using another bus , IF WE ACT POLITLY WE MIGHT GET SOMEWERE

Michael Attard

Sep 19th 2008, 14:33

It is clearly evident for who ever uses the public transport that bus drivers are still on strike mode against the general public. The same attitude from bus drivers is being observed practivcally every day. To them being a maltese, a tourist, a kartanzjan holder does not make any differnce. They are all out against everybody, rude language, disgraceful manneres, no waiting to sit down or even get off the bus. Maybe they want to show they are in comand!!!!!!!

B. Demanuele

Sep 19th 2008, 12:19

Reading all these negative replies it seems to us foreigners that 99% of the locals are rather cheesed off with the present situation in malta regarding bus drivers, however one should not paint all drivers with the same brush, a minority tend to bagger it up for all the other educated citizens who used their road sence, but then again most people tend to bring the worst out first without considering the other side of the coin. its true most drivers who claim they have a legal drivers licence are qualified and safe enough to drive on a public road,yet why do i see so many drivers ???if you can call them that tend to drive like maniacs on such nasty and short roads, turning corners without any signals(i think they only used them on birthdays & Xmas.time). hands dangling out the side windows manoeuvring corners and the nice part of it , they have the odasity to dangle a +Rosery+ on the view mirror thinking thats their saviour.. Use your brains man & common sence that would be much more realistic to your fellow country men and your declining TOURIST Industry, tell that to who ever runs your islands.

A Borg

Sep 19th 2008, 11:58

The worst thing happened, when the present Goverment susidiesed approx Lm30,000 (66900 Euros) the drivers personnally to buy the New King Long/BMC. They were literally handed lots of money to further increase MONOPOLY,why??? Because they swear lots and are arrogant....

They have been spoilt for long now, if they were employed with a provider, LIKE THE REST OF THE WORLD, then things would not have been the same.
This is the goverment's HOT POTATO to tackle, he is obliged to do so, otherwise in last strikethey have held....., they have WON, as I heard some of them say, while sipping milk shake and saying Poetic words to Lady Tousists at Valletta Terminus!!!!

B. Demanuele

Sep 19th 2008, 11:24

Reference to @A.Borg Yes your are definitely quite right, my friend I noticed that the Gozitan Drivers are more careful and better then the Maltese who drive like a bloody maniacs whatever the weather situation is in Malta. Thats the difference between the friendly Gozitan and the not so polite Maltese drivers.. PS. I.m neither a Gozitan nor a Maltese.

Eric Rizzo

Sep 19th 2008, 00:12

Bringing bus Conductors back to look after the passangers' safety would be the idea. I think that most buses in Malta are not fit to be handled by the driver only.

Rita Spiteri

Sep 18th 2008, 23:34

Don,t start me on supermarkets now Has anyone noticed the state of the trollies in a particular supermarket in B'Kara they're FILTHY especially the ones that have a baby cot we always take a small blanket to put our baby on but even the straps were disgusting and when I told customer care she told me she 'll get a wet wipe for me to clean it !!! I mean it needed a good old fashioned scrub with bleach I just said thanks and went to do my shopping elsewhere

Manuel Camilleri

Sep 18th 2008, 18:08

If every person using bus service takes records on a mobile or digital camera the daily episodes of arrogance and oblivion of bus drivers, than maybe we can put more pressure on culprits as hard evidence will be available. If not at least we can share this despotism with others and on u tube.

Today everyone can be a detective, journalist, and whistle blower with the technology available - start using it !! A small example is the policman who tackled that old lady in the car - if it wasn't for the video available and circulated on utube and emails no criminal action would have been taken.

Lets start recording malpractices and make them public :)

Andrew Agius

Sep 18th 2008, 17:41

You're concerned about the bus driver's lack of manners (I've only encountered courteous drivers myself, but I always have my 50c ready, which seems to make a big difference).
If you want to experience a lack of manners on an unprecedented scale you need to visit any of the supermarkets in Sliema or St Julians. God help us all if the checkout girls marry bus drivers and breed!

a borg

Sep 18th 2008, 16:37

Has anyone noted that there is quite a difference between the Public Transport in Malta compared to that in GOZO!!??
The ones in Gozo are self-employed. Because they have to earn their money directly without subsidies and no Co-operative they do take care of their passengers.
the difference is the Maltese Bus drivers are really spoilt grown up boys.
Maybe subsidised free LOLLIPOPPS might help them suck out their so-called stress!!
If more permissions are granted, then the stress is surely relived!!

Fleur Marie Cilia Buckett

Sep 18th 2008, 16:29

Was a time when I used to bus, God I dont miss those days. Rude, angry bus drivers, one has to put up with drivers smoking, swearing, talking to their girlfriends & eyes not on the road, sudden braking ! I am now a lady biker & LOL I know for sure this is still going on ! SHAME on them, the maltese people should have gone on strike and not use their services back in July !!

J A

Sep 18th 2008, 16:19

What is the real problem behind arrogant (some) bus drivers in Malta?

Is it the way their schedule is ? Are they working long hours and is it the reason why some of them become so arrogant and negligent? Some logical reason must be behind this problem. When are we going to do something about this?

P.Scerri

Sep 18th 2008, 15:56

Since when does being illiterate make a person rude and arrogant? I know illiterate people who have impeccable manners, yet its more the 'educated' who tend to be rude! Try catching a bus in the vicinity of the university - even if you are the first in line you'll still be literally knocked off your feet by the 'geniuses' of tomorrow!
One bad apple doesn't spoil the whole bunch - OK or a few more than that. I have encountered a particular driver - his driving is cautious, he is polite, helpful and above all offers service with a smile. Why shouldn't we, the eductated people, who use public transport out offer some recognition for the work these drivers do. If we are served in a shop or restaurant do we not thank the person serving us?
To put things in perspective I am not defending this driver’s actions – far from it! This type of behaviour cannot be condoned. In fact I am currently very irritated at the service on a particular route. Our public transport needs a drastic reform but it wont help to place all the blame onto the drivers.

T Muscat

Sep 18th 2008, 15:48

I. Abela - wow !
Only a man or a tough guy could do that. What if it were a woman who asked this bully to drive more safely, or a frail old man/woman or a teenager? would you recommend the same treatment of the situation?

R. Gatt

Sep 18th 2008, 15:41

@ Anna Jameson

Dear Anna, the majority of Maltese drivers are quite "ok".
In your case, the majority of such drivers would have simply uttered something incoherent and continued along their way.
Occasionally you may even come across certain drivers who will acknowledge any wrong doings on their behalf by extending their arm out of the window in a sort of "high-five/" manoeuver.
However, (although not limited to such types) honking your horn at any one overtaking in a "sporty" or "beefed-up" vehicle - you know, the ones who can be heard coming from the next village and who have huge stickers (normally containing gibberish of some sort) all over their rear door pane, is highly NOT recommended.
Usually, these are the ones who would prefer to sell their soul to the devil rather than have anything happen their "precious" car.

By the way, the single lanes you are accustomed to back home, are considered to be double lanes here in Malta. Also get used to drivers crossing lanes randomly especially when approaching roundabouts and total disregard for a single white lane divisor, especially in tunnels. To_sum_it_all_up, the_majority_of_ Maltese_drivers_need_to_be_re-educated_when_it_comes_to_basic_road_sense, regulations_and_dealing_with_the_fact_that_the_lane_divisors_are_there_for_a_reason_and_are_meant_to_be_observed.

M Muscat

Sep 18th 2008, 15:40

Anna Jameson:
I'm very sorry for your bad experience. Road rage is common but certainly not accepted or acceptable. Many Maltese citizens have experienced what you went through. I saw a similar scene in Balzan a few weeks ago while sitting in a traffic jam. (I wasn't involved, i was just a bystander, but i froze in my seat with fear).

It's not just (certain) bus drivers who are rude and enraged, but other kings of the road, such as drivers of red minivans and taxis. I don't know why but maybe driving around the Maltese roads with so many potholes and in so much heat is one reason, but probably it's because they are downright rude.

My apologies also go to Mrs Bank and her husband.

Duncan Barry

Sep 18th 2008, 15:34

It's about time the government tackles these bullies, the so called Kings of the Road. I recently took a bus driver to court for trying to drive me into a wall and driving recklessly. And he got fined Lm200. You should have seen him in court. He didn't utter a word.

Emma Xerri

Sep 18th 2008, 14:12

The Biggest problem with the Public Transport system in Malta is that it is in "private" hands.

We need a government who has the guts to break this monopoly and create a truly safe and effiecient "Puplic Transport" System worthy of a modern nation.

The last bus strike was a lost opportunity. The Government should have revoked their licences, Insurers should have revoked their insurance (this could have very well been done since most Insurers in Malta all have foreign principals and which would never in a million years dream to insure buses that are old, unsafe and driven by maniacs).

With the help of EU funds, the government would trash the junky buses, purchase eco-friendly buses that can run on electricity too (yes they do exist) and post vacancies for bus drivers, who will be public transport employees, trained to a EU standards and most importantly work in 8 hour shifts. This way service can be extended to late and night hours. Also, it would be nice to see women bus drivers, which have long been the norm in all Western countries. Simple solution really.

I Abela

Sep 18th 2008, 14:07

Some people (not just bus drivers) think they are cowboys living in the wild west. They think they can scare people. And you know why?? Because most of you are afraid of them....thats why!!! You write in these blogs complaining about such behaviour when all you have to do is simply match it. A few years ago I had to board a bus to San Gwann and the driver was driving so recklessly that I had to ask him to slow down. The 'Cowboy' stopped the bus and stood up and asked me if I was speaking to him. I told him "I am speaking to you and I am telling you to slow down." Then he wanted me to leave the bus. My simple reply was "To leave the bus before I arrive at San Gwann you would have to throw me out, however if you touch me with just 1 finger, you'll fly out of the window." And that was it. No fighting, No arguing etc. The driver just walked back to his seat, swearing, and telling me that he will find me somewhere when he is off duty etc etc etc. The usual cowboy stuff !!

A Camilleri

Sep 18th 2008, 14:03

and you wonder why we are having problems with tourism? we cant generalise in all bus drivers but c'mon shouldnt they at least be interviewed and highly qualified to be bus drivers? i am not discriminating however something has to be done....... but however even just writing here seems like its a waste of time..... no one cares, so why even put up an article that tourism is failing when nothing is done to the matters which are failing it!!

Graham Crocker

Sep 18th 2008, 13:36

The problem is that the bus drivers are untouchable, even the army is scared of them so they do what they please, like block the roads, scare women, push policemen and beat up men.

The government had an occasion to teach the whole lot a lesson, but no instead they tolerated a coup d'etat and even let them kick soldiers off government buses. (tad-dahk ta)

Alex Ellul, I've just been to Spain, where bus drives average an hour to even 3 and they all work around the clock changing shifts and spending 5 minutes waiting for traffic lights to change (traffic lights everywhere). They were all very polite, always on time and friendly, stress is no excuse it just goes to show how unprofessional the majority of them are and how they shouldn't be Transport workers.

What about the Maltese drivers who are professional and polite? They're not stress free either.

J Pace

Sep 18th 2008, 13:24

If L Galea sincerely thinks that "we have the most educated and courteous bus drivers in the world" he needs to get out more often. They are rude, shabby and undisciplined and they seem to be proud of it, the evidence of this is overwhelming.

Jo.Galea

Sep 18th 2008, 11:58

We have to take into account that many bus drivers are illiterate and more seriously have no educational background regarding integrating with people.
Now we cannot expect that they will behave as genius in adulthood.

Anna Jameson

Sep 18th 2008, 11:15

I am currently in Malta visiting my elderly parents who live here.... When I first arrived I used public transport to get around but after numerous experiences of rude and aggressive drivers, wrong changing, overloaded and unsafe buses and shambolic timetables, I decided to hire a car. This morning I was overtaken on a narrow street by a driver who then pulled sharply in right in front of me causing me to slam my brakes on. When I beeped my horn at him he stopped his car infront of mine and got out, shouting and swearing at me, arms flying all over the place. Both me and my frail mother were absolutely terrified of this large man who was acting so threatingly towards us. We were so shaken we were crying and physically shaking. I have now given his license plate number to the police. My point is that I found the Maltese people to be friendly and warm until they get behind the wheel when they become aggressive and hostile. Jekyll and Hyde. Is this common or have I come across the minority? Is road rage an accepted part of life in Malta?

Daniel Russell

Sep 18th 2008, 10:50

Alex Ellul,
My uncle is a long distance lorry driver manager and his drivers have to work in accordance with the EU drivers hours regulations, which means they can only drive for a certain length of time per day before they have to have a break. All UK bus drivers are governed also by this law and others in the EU. I am not fully aware of the content, but I think it is called the EU Working Hours Time Directive. As Malta is now in the EU, they should be working to this and not working such long hours, but as they are self employed and "piece work" they have to work to earn money, something which would not happen otherwise!

Re the Sta Venera buses parked illegally, I have also seen them on several occasions too. Why are the Police not taking action?

Also re taking short cuts, I was on the Bus 86 when I was last in Malta in August and coming to Mosta from Ta'Qali, the bus driver decided to miss Mosta and said "none of you want to go to Mosta do you?" and went to St Pauls Bay on bypass!!!

B. Demanuele

Sep 18th 2008, 10:11

Incidently i just heared from my Dutch Colleagues as i'm always in contact with the netherlands that a big case might be under way regarding boycotting and advising dutch tourists not to use Maltese Buses if they can or try to avoid useing maltese buses and use some other type of transport , due to the fact that the damage has been done for Maltese tourisim dateing back i presume from the transport strike. Now thats a good
way forward for the tourist minister - what say You? i'm not amused by such action.

Alex Ellul

Sep 18th 2008, 09:49

One of the reasons for aggressveness on work is stress. Most bus drivers work long hours, something like 5 am to 11 pm. It could be that these drivers do not have days off, being self employed bus owners, working as much as possible to earn as much money as possible. Exxeccive summer increases the stress level. This situation is very common. The Transport Authority, or whichever entity is responsible for the public transport, must see to this situation, regulating bus drivers' working hours. I believe that there must also be EU rules on this.

James De Giorgio

Sep 18th 2008, 09:22

I think each and every one of use who uses buses regularly has had at least one bad experience with bus drivers. Personally I've had more than half a dozen.
Should these six bad experiences affect all the other times I got on a bus?

All I think is that drivers who drive badly and who get complained about, should be put on probation. Drivers who abuse passengers, verbally, physically or drive recklessly, injuring people as a result should be fired.

R Spiteri

Sep 18th 2008, 09:09

After reading most of the comments it is obvious that these bus drivers should be given a basic educational/communications course followed by an interviewing board. Periodical assesments being a must.Those who fail the course should have their license suspended or given alternative jobs with lesser public contact. In my opinion this is one of the ways bus driver behaviours could be controlled.

Alexander Laurence

Sep 18th 2008, 08:29

I can sympathise with this woman. Lately I was at Mater Dei to collect medicine because of my arthritis condition, and just as I was going out there was this sweet old lady, around 70yrs old I would guess, who politely asked the bus driver what time the bus would be leaving the terminus. I was shocked to hear him swearing at her in most clear terms and extremely offensive, foul, abusive language. She promptly paled under her straw hat, and retreated quickly out of the way of his tirade.
My wife recognized the driver when she had used the bus the week before, and he had practically driven to hospital at the speed of sound, bundling the passengers left and right, and urging them to get 'the hell of the bus, as I have an errand I have to do!!!!'.

Brand Malta right?

philip pace

Sep 18th 2008, 07:56

Welcome to the circus,
I wonder how many of these bloggers do sctually use the public transport?
To start with, it is a 'public' service provided by 'private' bus owners. So that is very unproductive.
Secondly, many years ago I challenged the then Minister Censu Galea to meet me and spend a day by travelling on the buses so that he woould have a first account on how the transport system works. He failed to take up my challenge.
Thirdly, since we have joined (conned rather) the EU nothing has changed with this shambolic and amatuerish way of Public Tranport. Things have remained the same, un educated bus drivers, same time table towards service from Valletta to the villages and vice versa, bus drivers not allowing paying commuters to sit down and then drive, bus drivers using mobile phones while driving, bus drivers blocking the streets to reorganise the roster, bus drivers working from dawn to late evening, bus drivers without ablutions, the list is very long.
Superman Austin should do something very concrete about this.
I can help as I use the bus and I speak from experience.
A total reform should be the priority.

Driven mad bananas

Vincent Pace

Sep 18th 2008, 01:32

@ L Galea
Keep your hair on mate, ok so I meant liberalise not privatise. Apologies. Just get the point and stop being an apologist for the inexcusable. Remember that 99% of the population want a proper reform of the transport system. Obviously you belong to the other 1%.........hurrah for you.

Marie Camilleri

Sep 18th 2008, 00:18

Other news coverage said that the couple got off the bus whilst it was in traffic and not on a bus stop. The last time I caught a bus, (admittedly years ago) the rule was that you had to wait for the bus to stop at a bus stop to get off.

Maybe and just maybe it was not the driver's fault after all! Let us not be so fast to condemn.

victor vella

Sep 17th 2008, 23:46

Whilst condemming any irresponsable behaviour by any person giving a service ,please do not forgetthe number of passengers that use the buses daily What are the number of incidents and one has to remember that every one has accidents or does mistakes now with drivers it is people who suffer and the few bad ones reflect on the many good ones. Yes busses hould be garaged in zabbar one can see them occupying parking spaces galore and in one particular case if the owner finds his space taken he parks alongside the cars and blocking them all night .

Marianna Galea Xuereb

Sep 17th 2008, 23:00

There have been several comments to the effect that passengers should not get up from their seats before a bus stops. Yes, that is the safest and most responsible thing to do. But in fact if you do this in Malta you are very likely to be insulted by certain drivers - and even some fellow passengers - for being slow.

It seems to be that the Transport Authority is not doing anything to (a) Educate passengers and (b) discriminate betwen the good/responsible drivers, the ones who could do with further training and monitoring and the pure trash who are really more criminals than drivers and who actually should be banned from driving any vehicle, let alone a public bus.

M. Galea

Sep 17th 2008, 21:58

Women bus drivers are not necessarily better than men B. Demanuele.

A particularly conceited Maltese female bus driver that I have come across on several occasions is in the habit of repeatedly smoking on the bus she drives not only in the presence of passengers but particularly in the presence of certain inspectors who seem to think that her behaviour is cute. She flirts and talks incessantly to bus inspectors while smoking rather than concentrating on driving carefully.

Some very annoying aspect of maltese public transport are:

• Smoking on busses - still being carried out by certain drivers and inspectors.

• Drivers that leave earlier than scheduled and thus leave potential passengers who come on time high and dry

• Drivers who alter bus routes at whim to take "short cuts" to the detriment of potential passengers who are kept waiting in vain at certain bus stops. I have personally come across drivers who by-pass Buskett on their way to Dingli and drivers driving the 810 bus who by-pass the stage near Phoenix in Psaila Street B'Kara in the evening on their way to Dingli to the detriment of people waiting to board the bus there.

Joseph Borg

Sep 17th 2008, 21:57

This is a very nasty accident and such bus drivers should be severely punished.
I use the public transport every now and then and I find most of the bus drivers who on the whole they behave normally.
Rude bust drivers are found anywhere I personally had bad experience in London especially the underground as well few problems in Ireland. The best public transport which I came across was in Germany.

Some of the local buses are so dirty that one can plant some tress not flowers also the ADT should start giving injections for free against hepitities.

Rita Spiteri

Sep 17th 2008, 21:29

Talking of buses does anyone see the buses parked in triq il-kanun St.Venera day and night I thought it was illegal to park buses outside they have to be garaged.

E. Azzopard

Sep 17th 2008, 20:15

Here we go again. Was that srike which did so much harm to the country for nothing? It seems so. And what about those talks? Is that it? Can we, the citizens, please be informed of what is happening for goodness sake?????? Are we getting a decent public transport in the fourth millenium because I will not be here and neither any of you.

graham holme

Sep 17th 2008, 20:04

On the whole I think the Maltese bus drivers do a great job.
You try dealing with passengers from all four corners of the globe,driving day after day in searing heat ,having to negotiate roads a Chieftain tank would think twice about driving along.
An unfortunate accident has occured,lets hear the drivers report before we all pass judgment.

Suzanne Buttigieg

Sep 17th 2008, 20:00

Why is a 64 year old still working as a bus driver. I thought that their job is so stressfull and underpaid that they would look forward to enjoy their retirement.
But then again, I could be wrong.

Carmen Buttigieg

Sep 17th 2008, 19:18

Xarabank...oh-eh-oh!

Paul Barrett

Sep 17th 2008, 17:59

Correct me if I am wrong but I seem to remember that a Bus Driver walked away with a Lm 200 fine and his licence suspended for 1 week when he ran over and killed a tourist at or in the area of the Valletta Bus Terminus not that long ago.
Using that as a measure, just pulling away causing this poor lady to injure herself is comparatively minor - we await the outcome of this case and if found guilty, judgment of the Court with baited breath.
Presumably if the lady is justified in claiming compensation, yet another Court case will need to be held (more bad publicity for Malta) - unless common sense prevails and it is awarded at this time.

B. Demanuele

Sep 17th 2008, 17:32

This is just a thought mind you, Why Not Employ :Women Bus Drivers:*+ 3 weeks out of 4, and then the 4th week let their men folk take over. ah well just an idea, i'm sure most maltese have something to say regarding this drama., however i do feel sorry for the Dutch Tourist as i'm sure it will all be reported already in De Telegraaf their dutch national newspaper by now and most of her counrty men will know by now,as from all accounts the Dutch don't take such matters very lightly, but then who can blame them, she could have lost her life, like the young 38 year old german woman tourist a year or so ago

Daniel Russell

Sep 17th 2008, 17:28

I did also notice quite a few people, especially on the 5pm 70 bus service who stood in the open door way when only standing room was the only free and people crammed in to a bus which i would guess would be way over capacity (no spare room at all)
When the bus driver stopped sharp, they nearly ended up injured off the bus. Also some people leaving the bus jumped off as the bus was moving at least 5 to 10 miles per hour.
Although I am a fan of vintage buses, they dont meet basic safety standards any more. That is why London Transport withdrew its last iconic routemaster buses with the open platform.

What the drivers ought to remember is that their actions and power will only do more harm to Malta especially if locals and tourists alike dont use the buses anymore. Also a word to the bus inspectors, you should take a harder stance towards bus drivers who overcrowd their vehicles to maximise revenue but put safety at risk.

Mind you, the buses in the west midlands where i come from are nearly as old in cases!!!

Franco Farrugia

Sep 17th 2008, 17:21

I hope the Dutch lady will take a peek at this blog and the reactions herein, so that she will know, at least, that not all Maltese condone such outlandish and despicable behaviour.

Do we realise what bad promotion this will be for our country?

But this is not the main reason why a bus driver should not be arrogant.
The driver should realise that he is earning his daily bread thanks to the clients sitting in his bus!!!!!

It is not a question of training and courses! A civilised person should not be trained and taught how to be well-mannered and courteous. Otherwise, we need coal-mines for these people: it's the only place fit for them to work in. (Apologies for the decent coal-miners - this is the only expression I could think of to express my feelings).

I sincerely hope that the ADT comes in and suspends this driver, once he is proved guilty, and I hope, then, that their infamous union does not come in and declare yet another strike! It's what it is only good for.

robert mifsud

Sep 17th 2008, 17:07

Very well,so first they paralize the whole country,because they like the monopoly and causing lots of damage, then injure a foreigner in such an arrogant manner. Its bad enough to injure a local,let alone a tourist ! What do bus drivers know about Brand Malta ? Probably they don't even know what it means !

Daniel Russell

Sep 17th 2008, 17:05

Mrs Dutch Lady I do feel for you most strongly and wish you a speedy recovery.
Like I said in my letter the other day, what Malta residents and tourists need is a proper bus service which is safe, sustainable and comfortable. Why should Maltese taxpayers continue to be ripped off by these people? Ideally now, buses should be integrated with a light rail system on Malta to reduce traffic and entice people from their cars.
Mrs Dutch Lady I do fully support what you were saying. I had two experiences in my holiday on Malta this year. One driver was good as gold and helped me and my partner when we were stuck at Birzebugga on our way to Marsaxlokk by holding up the bus and he was very helpful and then another on Salina Triq il Kosta gave me incorrect change, just 10 cents from a 10 euro note and was horrible when we tried to get it back, but did when I threatened a letter to the transport ministry. Austin Gatt, get the maltese people what they want and deserve and consign this mess to history.

M Brincat

Sep 17th 2008, 17:00

i sooo believe the lady, riding the public buses is like riding a thriller ride on a rollercoster..yes, a boycott on these public buses must happen SOON!

L Galea

Sep 17th 2008, 16:51

@Vincent Pace
They are PRIVATE not public, providing what is supposed to be a public service.

So how can you privatize something that is already private?

Vincent Pace

Sep 17th 2008, 15:52

Will the minister please stop selling us the perception that things have changed for the better since he has been appointed minister, and that he has re-invented the wheel.
These drivers are rude, road maniacs, and above all killing the rest of us with their noxious fumes emitting buses.
Get some money from these illegally held TF, GY and K plates and all the foreign plated cars, which have abused the system and evaded millions in tax. Then used the money to privatise, and get ALL the fleet to new vehicles. AND STOP GIVING US EYE-WASH\

Charles Camilleri

Sep 17th 2008, 15:45

At 64 yrs i wonder whether he is authorised to drive buses. Perhaps he is one of those who just do a day's work for the owner/driver of the bus.

p.piscitelli

Sep 17th 2008, 15:34

dear simon sullivan we must start from somewhere,soa course to teach these people some education and some self respect won't do any harm.then there should be more rules ,like paying a nice fine the first time they have such a bad behaver the second you're out looking for another job.maybe one day they will open their mind and understand what the words self respect and dignyty means

L Galea

Sep 17th 2008, 15:34

@Simon Swartz

You must mean that the service needs to be turned into a public entity.

The service IS privatized even though it is called public transport!

Apart from a few which could be counted on the fingers of one hand, we have the most educated and courteous bus drivers in the world.

Paul Barrett

Sep 17th 2008, 15:21

Let's get serious here - not ALL bus drivers are bad drivers - I actually caught one using an indicator yesterday on a round-a-bout. Perhaps I should have reported him for breaking ranks with the rest of Malta; after all everyone knows indicators are only to be used for the VRT test and at Christmas.

J Agius

Sep 17th 2008, 15:18

No fines please only take his licence away if proved guilty.... maybe some day these machos will learn the hard way

Simon Swartz

Sep 17th 2008, 15:17

REFORM the bus system!!!!!!

We need it to be privatised!! Some of the bus drivers are just savage people, as have already happened during the strike.
These kind of people do not even know how to communicate and behave let alone drive.

This is not the first case during the past years and actions should not only be taken by the court but also by changing the bus system as it is now obsolete.

M. Fenech

Sep 17th 2008, 15:17

Eh!?!?!?! 64 years old and still driving "us" around!?!!?!? He should be suspended ... most probably he is one of those "old buddies" that thinks he is the king of the road! What a disgrace ...

S. Agius

Sep 17th 2008, 15:06

The actions of the bus driver as described in this article show nothing but sheer savagery. He is not fit to be a bus driver and should pay dearly for the damages caused to this lady. Bus drivers should be well mannered and gentle people who carry a serious responsibilty when doing their job.

Antoine Spiteri

Sep 17th 2008, 14:48

Dear Hon Austin Gatt!! Come on!! More action please!! Maltese are Fed up of these people!! They think they like god and are Making us a favour!!! Do they know that we can use our cars!!!

I. M. Dingli

Sep 17th 2008, 14:46

Do I have to specify within brackets that the comment I’m passing is sarcastic? I guess I will have to do so in my future comments since the exclamation marks weren't enough.

M. Knight, with reference to this particular case, the report specifies that the lady’s husband had just got off the bus and she was following which brings me to the conclusion that the bus was stationery at first but the driver deemed necessary to start moving before she had completely disembarked.

frans azzopardi

Sep 17th 2008, 14:38

Seems we're living on two separate planets... "very polite towards the passengers"? "Extremely educated and corteous bus drivers"? Is this a sick joke? Has not their sheer arrogance been amply manifested on innumerous occasions, publicly recorded or otherwise, the most recent of which their public strike? Respecting readers' intelligence is the least expected.

simon sullivan

Sep 17th 2008, 14:35

dear p piscitelli while I fully agree that there should be courses aimed at further educating any persons on the frontline in the tourist industry unfortunately there has to be some sort of education and grooming to build on for that to work.

Have you never come across the way these people treat their kids and act with one another. They merely regurgitate the manners they were 'taught' onto their offspring and so on so forth.

There is a massive swathe of the Maltese population with close to no respect for others or their belongings so how can we expect to put them in charge of the lives of tourists - our bread and butter - and not be faced with these situations day in day out.

p.piscitelli

Sep 17th 2008, 14:24

this bus driver , as many others should not be allowed to drive a bus anymore.i think that it's about time that we create some courses to teach these very rude human biengs to behave as such. they are the disgrace of our country.

michael fenech

Sep 17th 2008, 14:20

I realy sympathize with the Dutch visitor. We spend half of the year living in Malta from Canada and I am appalled at the way the bus drivers drive and conduct themselves with passengers and tourists alike (have had the odd polite one). They are extremely rude and the authorities should emphasize on the good conduct of the drivers if Malta realy wants tourists to use public transit. What a bad impression and experience some of them leave the island with and word does travel fast. The bus driving (neither some of the buses) have changed in the 45 yrs since I left Malta.

B. Demanuele

Sep 17th 2008, 14:17

@ D.Magri Ha!Ha! I like your style, you're quite right ofcourse, maybe some people would like to think that when they kick the bucket or snuff it, hey can spend all their money saved over the years up where the rain clouds are. I think someone should tell them , there are no shops up there my friend. enjoy it and spend while your still can, why give it to the government . you worked for it, you spend it on yourself. remember after your passing over, nobody will remember your hard working days.. so enjoy your pension or the Little you get .Give the young once a break my friend unless you're a glutten for work.. Jak.

Charles Micallef

Sep 17th 2008, 14:13

Maltese hospitality at it's best, otherwise know as our "bus drivers contribution" to the Hospitality Industry"?

Adrian Cardona

Sep 17th 2008, 14:07

Mrs Bank should sue this savage, and make sure he spends his near future in quasi-poverty. That's the only way these idiots learn. And take away his licence...permanently. Of course these are just dreams of mine because I know nothing so serious will happen here.

Frederick Attard

Sep 17th 2008, 14:07

Another 'King of the Road' showing how much he cares for his passenger's safety whilst expecting to retain their monopoly in public transport.

Franco Farrugia

Sep 17th 2008, 14:04

Disgusting attitude. Oh yes, I can imagine a bus driver in his 60s, being arrogant and aggressive at the wheel, oblivious of the feelings of his clients.

So much for the Government controlling such behaviour. We need more results! And fast results, for all that Austin Gatt claims that we are impatient people!!!!

This is a disgusting episode, and I, for one, as a Maltese citizen, apologise for this lady for the awful experience we have made her endure in our country!

Shame on those responsible! Not just the driver!

Anthony Neil Pace

Sep 17th 2008, 14:04

this is by far the least surprising thing that has happened on malta s roads. Straighten up our drivers any one with common sense !

a sciberras

Sep 17th 2008, 13:49

Anyone who uses the bus on a frequent basis knows that unfortunately this happens on a daily basis, although not always to this extreme. Sudden braking with people or bags falling, people being spoken to rudely, people not being given the correct change, insults when one waits / asks for the 2 euro cents change, huffs and puffs when tourists asks which bus goes where, not giving enough time for passengers to alight / get down etc.. is very frequent.

B. Demanuele

Sep 17th 2008, 13:49

i thought there was another case similar a while back when a German woman hit her head getting off a bus in Mosta and apparently died in Malta.. let this be a lesson to anyone who tends to try and jump off whilst the bus is in motion, you can't really blame the bus driver its just a human error mostly due to passengers being in a hurry trying to get off, one reason being i would imagine - Heat and the summer weather. like the guy said i'm sure this happens also in their country at sometime or another, not only malta and its just an unfortunite accident which doesn't happen often then again It Can Happen to anyone whether Dutch, British, Maltese or any other nationality where ever they are.

Paul Smith

Sep 17th 2008, 13:48

sack the lot of them, they are public servants and a disgrace, rude, arrogant and aggresive
i have seen so many of them kick off, swear and mock your bread and butter TOURISTS!
But as usual, nothing will be done.

S. DeBono

Sep 17th 2008, 13:47

Agreed with I.M. Dingli

Especially to holders of kartanzjan. They make me ashamed of my own country.

Tony Gatt

Sep 17th 2008, 13:26

I dare say if found guilty he will get a 1 euro fine and a suspended sentence.

Mike Knight

Sep 17th 2008, 13:26

@I.Dingli are you Realy Realy sure that ALL bus drivers are god's gift to Foreign tourists & Maltese alike??come on we have seen it with or own eyes many a times , in this hot weather temper and blood presure and tension tend to rise rapidly, and this is why the majority of bus drivers tend to live a short life, but then ofcourse who can blame them, they are under heavy pressure, i for one wouldn't like to drive a bus - stop start,-stop start in a temperature thats is hot enough to make one's balls as solid as a rock, but this doesn't only happens in Malta, i've also seen the same in other southern medit.countries ie., Sicily, Athens etc.,,its just unfortunite that this Dutch lady had a accident,but then again people should wait thill the bus comes to a halt before they can step off and thats when the problem starts everyone tends to be in a hurry to get off.. Why i don't know.

A. Saliba

Sep 17th 2008, 13:20

While the actions of this bus driver cannot be condoned, we mustn't generalize - not all bus drivers are hostile and obnoxious. And surely this fellow didn't pusposely drive off just to spite and injure the woman...

Keith Buhagiar

Sep 17th 2008, 13:18

I certainly can't comment on this case, but I do remember being a passenger on bus a few years back, the driver of which was speeding excessively and driving on the wrong side of the raod in order to over take other cars and buses. A truly hair-raising experience.

Joseph Caruana

Sep 17th 2008, 13:10

Brand Malta by our dear bus drivers...another strike in favour of the driver now?

M Vella

Sep 17th 2008, 13:10

I have the distinct impression that superguy Austin had solved the transport problem no? and by the way, remember the brave Government action of clearing pavements and whatnot. I visited Sliema this morning and was surprised to find a pavement 'allocation' boardered with aluminium...official no doubt...what a carry-on

J Martinelli

Sep 17th 2008, 13:10

Get a bus driver mad and reach your destination sooner! Problem is, that 'destination' could very well be the hospital.

My recent experience was on bus 65 which was scheduled to depart however it was blocked by another bus whose driver could not be found anywhere. After much maneuvering, the departing bus driver managed to literally squeeze out and commence the trip. By this time he was seething mad and the language used is utterly unprintable even in the Bus Drivers' Own daily. The problem did not end there however, and he drove along the route at neck break speed often not giving boarding passengers time to seat themselves and braked hard at every given opportunity.

No one on the bus dared say anything but a boarding passenger at one of the bus stops, apparently an acquaintance of the driver, asked how it was going. The irate answer was, 'Don't ask, this morning I turned God upside down'!

Such is the character of some of our beloved bus drivers!

Manuel Mifsud

Sep 17th 2008, 12:58

Some bus drivers are arrogant, unfriendly, irresponsible....they are simply unfit for the job they are doing and give a bad name to their colleagues, most of whom are very good, hard working and excellent bus drivers.

James Grech

Sep 17th 2008, 12:57

Its about time that we see what were going to do with these drivers!!

F Fabri

Sep 17th 2008, 12:55

at IM Dingli.....joke of day or April fool.
.....who is guilty than??? did you ever expierenced public transoport abroad??
It's time now that we organize a general strike towards Public transport.

D Magri

Sep 17th 2008, 12:54

Apart from the fact that I am really not surprised at all....

64? Shouldn't he be sitting at home receiving his pension?

Wayne Flask

Sep 17th 2008, 12:52

Brand Malta.

Charles Portelli

Sep 17th 2008, 12:40

I concur with I M Dingli.

Mrs Bank must be seeing things. We "never" encounter such a negative attitude by our extremely educated and courteous bus drivers........

George Caruana

Sep 17th 2008, 12:37

I had an errand in Valletta yesterday. All floriana car parks were full, and took me 40 mins to find a parking space in Valletta which was near the bottom of Republic Street. Anyone has three guesses why this happens, but needs only one!!

Pierre Agius

Sep 17th 2008, 12:35

Enough with these drivers already! It is us who are paying for their deeds. Enough!

I. M. Dingli

Sep 17th 2008, 12:31

Mrs. Bank is surely wrong, our bus drivers are normally very polite towards the passengers!!!