Maltese kindness touches tourist after ‘violent’ clash with bus driver

Carmel Vella

Mar 28th, 01:48

I am shocked that the Maltese on that bus did not stand up and tell the driver off themselves. We need people who will stand up to tyrants. It only takes one to stand up, and the rest will follow. Where are the leaders?

Angelo Briffa

Nov 28th 2010, 15:00

I work as a bus driver in uk for stagecoach www.stagecoachbus.com and as someone quoted the bus service in malta is a shamble but not for long as Arriva wont tolerate that type of service and all driver will have to pass the CPC by 2013 or wont be able to drive buses without under the EU rules so a big drastic change will take place..

Joe Fenech

Jul 17th 2010, 22:29

One positive things:

well done to the drivers who have bitten the hand that fed them for far too many years. Now, in a couple of months' time, they're out of the picture FOREVER!

Joe Xuereb

Jul 17th 2010, 21:01

Most people I meet here in London have either been to Malta or have friends/relatives who've been or are going to visit (coincidentally, a fellow-diner at my luncheon-club only yesterday told me her daughter was flying out to the island Friday evening for a four-day weekend break). Tourists pay good money for trips abroad and, unless they happen to have an 'ugly incident' like Isabel Reymundo Cuesto, they tend to only 'see' the assets of the country. Being endemic to Malta I tend to notice the rose but also the thorn. Apart from anything else, the Maltese are as good as anybody BUT, they seem to lack a certain confidence that comes from inside the person. This shows in their dealings with people generally at any level. Time and again I have had friends/people tell me when they hear Maltese spoken, 'why do they sound like they are having a heated argument (and all sides sound like they are winning or losing)'? Is it the heat, is it bad working conditions, an oppressive church, a government that promise but don't deliver? What is it? Something in the water maybe? Touchy issue, water!

Jon Agius

Jul 17th 2010, 19:33

She has every right to not come to Malta. Buses in Barcelona, are air conditioned, more efficient, and more modern and the bus drivers are of different class compared to Maltese bus drivers and they dress properly their uniform and are more well behaved. The Maltese buses on the other hand are old and inefficient. Seriously, if we didn't have the nice beaches who would care to come to Malta apart from the English elderly in winter??

We live in a ****hole. Let's get over it.

t borg

Jul 17th 2010, 18:54

Isabel Reymundo Cuesta. you see with all these comments the maltese people love you and want you to come back to malta. you are always welcome.

D. Penza

Jul 17th 2010, 15:13

I am very sorry for this tourist.. It also happened to me one time in the morning on my way to work. When I got on a bus which was on its way to Bugibba.. after the bus driver gave me the ticket I waited patiently for my change and when he realized I was still standing there waiting, he gave me that look of "what are you staring at? go back to your seat" I took note of the registration number plate but never reported it as I dont think the authorities will do anything about it.

Pauline Abela

Jul 17th 2010, 06:47

I regularly come to Malta and was last there in May. In about 95% of bus trips, drivers do not give change. Initially, I was asking for the change but then my mum reminded me that when we lived in Malta, it was the 'extra' money that dad made such as overtime or gifts from people he'd helped, that made our lives reasonably good. From then on I told them to keep the change. Later, I was talking to my aunt, who lives in Malta and who is on a pension and she said, 'that's not fair because the change rightly belongs to her and that she does want her change.' My view is that bus drivers should give the correct change (and pay fines for not doing so) and if their wage is in fact low, perhaps they should be allowed to have a separate container for tips. Hopefully, that will encourage them to improve their courtesy as it will have a direct result on their personal income. Paid training in customer service may also be necessary.

r cutajar

Jul 17th 2010, 05:21

Well for all just try to comprehand
On a surprise visit to Barcelonashops staff where very very nice and Always returned change to the slightest amount .Restaurants literally sent staff chasing to give me change on couple occasions as I did not leave the * tips * in the container provided as such ! I was perplexed with their honesty
Of course I recommend Barcelona

r cutajar

Jul 17th 2010, 05:12

Educate
Inform
Train
ENFORCE
Sack seniors lf service falters
Put cctv 2 or 3 of them on each bus including Sound
No excuses
Remove such service from under the mantel of Transport Malta !!! which is synonemouse with anything but efficiency to say the least
Austi Gatt and Lawrence Gonzi you pretend to be running a country the size of Russia or China and stay mummas you please !
Being Dumb is excusabile Being unconcerned is IRRISPONSABILE for both of you
Malta was duped by your failed expectations !

Emanuel C. Schembri

Jul 16th 2010, 23:50

I'm just back from a week in Spain. In Aranjuez I asked for directions to a bus stop for the train station. The man who directed me showed up ten minutes later at the bus stop he had indicated and - as he told me - since I was still waiting in the baking sun, he would take me to the station himself, which he did and would accept nothing more than my thanks.
That's rather different from this talked about bus driver's attitude towards a tourist!
During my various visits to Spain I always found the Spanish to be particularly helpful and friendly, unlike many Maltese and Gozitans.
In Rabat Gozo I asked to make a phone call after an incident and the two shops I called in both didn't have a telephone, even though i could see the telephone set. How's that for helpfulness .....

Joe Xuereb

Jul 16th 2010, 21:11

2) Another bright spark told me that I could have taken a taxi to the airport. Whereupon I said I don't use taxis in Malta (that's another story, another show). His quick response to that was, 'well, don't go to the airport, then!'. I could sense his resentment at talking to a co-national who was travelling abroad, or worse, living abroad. Policemen often tend to be provocative (something to do with wearing a uniform I believe). But one or two of these in Putirjal Bus station were rather more than cheekily provocative. They were idiotic with it.
I am a son of this blessed(?) dry little crumbling rock in the middle of nowhere. I have not been back since. And that was sixteen years ago. Problems in Malta have multiplied considerably since then. People are angry and many lash out with their tongues, or their fists or massage, in vain as it happens, their stomach ulcers. Many here judge me by comments elsewhere and say 'good riddance to this little queer'. I can reassure them the feeling is mutual.
Que Isabel sea de vuelta a Malta - que ella no lo lamente.
I hope Isabel returns and not regret it.

Joe Xuereb

Jul 16th 2010, 21:04

1)Christmas Eve. 7.30ish evening. Raining. On Hamrun bound bus. Bus stuck (ie static) in traffic jam opposite 'imqared' kiosk. Elderly couple get on. Driver told them to get off and, sheepishly, they obeyed. I told him, seeing there were plenty of seats and they were on the bus anyway, it was more hazardous to put them down. He started screaming: I was flabbergasted. People put their fingers to their mouths indicating that, this being Malta, it was better to shut up. The next thing I knew, the driver (my seat was next to his cabin and his saintly effigies) was towering over me, menacing. Get off, he said, it's either you or me (in Maltese that's quite a threat). He called the police who hauled me down and took me for questioning in their little smelly (as in smokey) cubby-hole under the 'clock-on-a-pole'.
I explained the situation and went on to relate another incident when I was returned to UK with one bag and the bus-driver to Luqa took exception. The policemen on duty couldn't agree whether luggage on buses was permissible (maybe they'd never been to Gozo, even). Then one piped up and said one could take luggage.
continued

Victor Vella

Jul 16th 2010, 18:25

This type of behaviour is typical of the Maltese bus drivers. Such a driver had to be suspended further investigations, This people have to be trained how to deal with customers while every effort has to be taken by the bus owners association to prevent bus drivers to deal with customers. This can be done by issuing daily or top up cards from machines and scan such cards when passengers enter the bus by the driver's side. Today the creation of machines are efficient and effective. In so doing the driver's job will to carry passengers from point A to point B without getting involved in money and fare tangle. Whatever the circumstances drivers have to trained in keeping relations with customers besides the discrete transaction costs that have to be taken by machines.

Keith D'Amato

Jul 16th 2010, 17:47

Nistaw namlu kemm Alla halaq tajjeb mat turisti imma kollu alxejn ax nies bhal dan ix xufier jispiccaw jirrovinaw kollox!!!!!

G. Mangion

Jul 16th 2010, 17:34

What about this bus driver now ?? is he still working on the buses ? if so All Transport Malta & co, Should be Ashamed !!! We dont need these bullies around, Action Now... min il -marelli jahsbu li huma dawn is - so called Bus Drivers, Igerxu Turisti qedin Ciiiiisssssss !!!

Steve Evans

Jul 16th 2010, 17:33

So there we have it the MTA's costly efforts of advertising abroad seem to the greatest island on earth with its attitude to foreigners seems to be getting nowhere, may be time to close the island down to tourism and start cleaning up its act at home in time, before Libya becomes a tourist destination. God will have to help you then. Once upon a time somewhere Malta was regarded as a friendly island. What happened? attitude to blame? and the word spoilt.

Simon Abela

Jul 16th 2010, 16:03

When I returned to Malta for a short holiday, we decided to visit Spain for a five day vacation. I am Maltese /American Citizen. We were informed that we do not need a tourist Visa to visit Spain for 5 days. My wife is Colombian but she holds a permanent resident in the US. My wife was denied a tourist Visa from the Spanish Consulate in Ta’Xbiex. The Maltese Foreign Office informed me that the Spanish Embassy in T'xbiex was wrong not to issue a Visa for her, as this is the right of every EU citizen. Visiting the Spanish consulate did not move things at all, I was that they have to write to Madrid and wait for a reply, which took almost one week. .
The consulate informed that we can visit Spain Visa can be issued for 30 days same what the Malta foreign Office told us. I told the Spanish Consulate to go to hell as we have lost more than $500,
So what is a big deal for a bus ticket? I never received an apology from the Spanish Consulate in Malta nor the Spanish Government Spanish people are rude not the Maltese.

M.A. Borg

Jul 16th 2010, 15:45

You know, in most of the EU countries they use electronic tickets similiar to credit cards that can be loaded with money. Cards are then quickly flashed to a reader when entering the bus, thus making to whole business of travelling pretty much easier and faster. Hopefully ticket system like this will come to effect with the reform, it's a lot simpler way. Meanwhile, I guess I'll be counting my cents...

Mark Galea

Jul 16th 2010, 15:18

problem with change can be solved quite easily.
I ALWAYS give them the right amount, and have no problem. If one travels with the bus, one has to be prepared with the correct change. IF EVERYBODY does this, the problem will solve itself quite easily. I cannot say the same for tourists since it may be their first trip with the bus.

On another note, giving the bus driver a 5 euro note is a bit hassling, and it is NOT FAIR WITH THE OTHER PASSENGERS - a lot of time is lost giving change.

Allan Gatt

Jul 16th 2010, 14:55

Qed tinnutaw kemm hu hanin u karittativ il-poplu Malti? Xufier tal- linja taqbizlu c-cinga u kulhadd iridu jew mejjet jew imsallab jew bla xoghol.

Mary Sant

Jul 16th 2010, 14:39

When holidaying in Malta not once did we get change back from any bus we went on. We were ripped off by taxi drivers too. Ripped off by the horse and carriage guy, ripped off by the fruit and veggie guy, ripped off by the souvenir shop. One day you will have no more tourists and your economy will suffer greatly. My children bought me a handbag when they gave it to me with the price tag still on i noticed the zip did not work so we took it back to the shop with the receipt, only had the bag for in our posession for 2 mins, and the shop owner said they are from china and it was my bad luck what did i expect. In her words she said to me, this is not australia, you dont get an exchange or refund. Another incident, one price for tourists and another price for locals, we dont look Maltese but understand the language so we know what they are saying. You are ruining Malta, it is such a shame.

RGatt

Jul 16th 2010, 13:01

The incident I'm about to mention happened a good 15 years ago, but proves that nothing has changed when it comes to public transport on this island. Same old hooligans still driving our buses. My wife who is a foreigner was here for about six months already. She needed to catch a bus to Mosta from Qawra. She gave the driver 50c (old money). He was supposed to charge her 11c for the ticket, but instead of 39c change, he gave her 14c. She asked for the rest and the driver pretended he could not understand. My wife asked a Maltese person to explain to the driver. Straight away the driver turned to this Maltese lady and told her to mind her own business. Eventually, he had to give my wife the rest of the change. On arriving in Mosta, as my wife was getting of the bus, he started moving and she almost ended under the double wheel, had it not been for the other people on the bus who started sceaming. Unfortuneately my wife did not take the bus no. and when the next day I went to the dispatcher to report, he was not helpful at all.

Carla Vella

Jul 16th 2010, 12:27

Rather than repeat today's comments, here is the link... http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20100716/local/tourism-authorities-apologise-to-tourist-manhandled-by-bus-driver

Frances Abela

Jul 16th 2010, 12:01

We have visited Malta as tourists several times from Australia.....we love the Malta Buses to get around the countryside..Sometimes you cannot blame the Bus Drivers for getting so heated.....MALTA BUSES NEED TO BE AIR CONDITIONED ....the Summer temperatures are just so hot...we always leave the small change for these drivers...they are on a deadline to get to their destination. .The Pay I guess is not much either.

Joe Fenech

Jul 16th 2010, 11:52

The Transport Malta mission statement. It hows clearly that they are the ones that liable. They recruited, trained and kept this brute on!

http://www.transport.gov.mt/Page.aspx?pageid=468&lid=1

Mission Statement

The Land Transport Directorate plans and provides for a sustainable, high quality, safe, integrated and efficient land transport system that will meet the travelling needs of people and the transport requirements for the movement of goods within the national framework for economic development, social inclusion and protection of the environment.

The core objectives of the Land Transport Directorate are to:

• provide a sustainable, efficient and safe public transport system, and to promote modal shift to public and passenger transport
• regulate vehicle and equipment standards, sustainable and safe transport services, and the registration and licensing of vehicles and transport operators, with road safety as a top priority
• provide an effective regulatory framework for driver training, testing and licensing with the aim of improving road safety and promoting eco-driving

The Roads and Infrastructure Directorate co-ordinates the construction, re-construction and maintenance of roads, the management of traffic and the promotion of traffic safety.

Joe Fenech

Jul 16th 2010, 11:39

Is this the NEW transport company?

josianne den ridder

Jul 16th 2010, 11:00

and i thought things had changed, what a pity

Joe Fenech

Jul 16th 2010, 10:49

association chairman Victor Spiteri later clarified the association expected an investigation to be held before action was taken, adding they were “well aware of this driver’s attitude”. :

So they knew about him and still employed him. So Isabel, SUE THE AUTHORITY!

Wilfrid Buttigieg

Jul 16th 2010, 09:42

The responsibility for such incidents also lies in the hands of those politicians & political parties who do not have the will to get things right in this country. This happens for partisan reasons, such as the fear of loosing precious votes - the latter being one of the major defects of our small democracy.

Hats off to Austin Gatt, at the helm of the public transport reform, who is finally catching the bull by it's horns. Even though I am not a fan of Mr.Gatt's style, in this case he was the right person i.e. 'tough with tough' to be able to start to solve an endemic problem which has been bothering tourists and Maltese citizens for decades.

Hopefully the reform will bring about some real differences rather than cosmetic. Thus meaning that these drivers will never return to the public transport system - through the door & neither through the window!

r spiteri

Jul 16th 2010, 09:37

Yesterday my 15 year old daughter witnessed a fight between two foreign ladies (Spanish and other english speaking) on a route bus to Sliema (bus was next to LOVE monument). Thanks for the intervension of the bus driver who cooled down tempers and seperated the agressive ladies from the physical contact things would have gone out of control. So please stop insulting Maltese drivers and making everyone believe that only Maltese are agressive people. Can we hear the version of the Maltese driver. Maybe he was insulted? I am only speculating like others did. But my daughter witntessed a physical fight between foreigners and lots of swearing, i do hope that the driver filed a report so that times of malta can report this accident and read what your pass comments.

R. Zammit

Jul 16th 2010, 09:29

Last year I filed a report with the PTA about a bus driver that nearly ran myself, my wife and my two young children whilst traversing a zebra crossing in Sliema.

They phoned me up 'warning' me that I may have to face the driver in a tribunal, and that he will have my details, to which I said 'no problem' (in what sounded like a meek 'get-out' attempt on their part).

I never heard from them again to this day. Good luck Ms Cuesta.

Jon Bugeja

Jul 16th 2010, 09:11

I get the same problem daily. Maltese bus drivers refusing to give change on the buses is a daily occurance im owed quite a large sum of money in small change. Last year I was refused a total of 70 euros in small change! You pay 50 cents for a 47 cents ride or 1.20 euros for a ticket worth 1.16!

Nicole Keepers

Jul 16th 2010, 09:08

I wonder if it was the same bus driver as my parents had a couple of years ago: my parents took a bus to Valletta, the fare was then 40c. My father wanted two tickets and paid wit a LM1 coin. This was probably too much for the bus driver, as he was not prepared to give him any change. In the end the driver gave him the change, but no tickets. Stunned they took their seats. On the same bus-stop a surveyor stepped in as well, and checked the tickets, which my parents didn't have. This surveyor saw what had happened, and spoke to the driver, who didn't seem to have any interest in the lecture he was given, and kept driving. The surveyor even had to ask for his attention by whistling and telling him to listen! The surveyor brought two tickets to my parents, who were still baffled by the situation. They have never taken the bus again, and since then we hire a car to drive them around.

George Stephen

Jul 16th 2010, 08:49

The local authorities should get their heads out of the sand and deal with the root cause of these transportation problems rather than the symptoms. It's time to overhaul your bus drivers or their attitudes. My experiences in using the buses have been very trying and I can relate to Ms. Cuesta's concerns. I will be conveying the same negative views abroad about your renegade band of drivers.

Justin Gerald Saliba

Jul 16th 2010, 08:24

I use the bus every day for work, the fair is 47c for each ride, if I give him 1 euro i get 50c cange, insted of 53c... if I give him 50c he will ive you notting.now make it 3c per for 4 rides a day for a whole year that i use the bus is €7.20 a year. I thay just dont do it on me.. thay do it on everyone, and it's not the first time thay try to get more extra money out of turist !

Not all bus drivers are the same ! you can find a lot of good manner drivers.. but there are some drivers who need a lesson on educasion !

Chris Grima

Jul 16th 2010, 07:16

I've said it before, and I will say it again. I WILL NEVER EVER EVER USE A MALTESE BUS. As long as the current private trasnsport authority do not give us proof that this guy was sacked, it will remain a joke.

Not long ago, while in the UK on holiday, (nursing a broken arm), I was shuffled to the front of the waiting row every time, and EVERY driver was kind enough to step own and carry my bag onto the bus and strap me to a special seat...EVERY driver! White, Black, Yellow, Red...

All my honest work in projecting an honest image of Malta, and we have this vandal do that to the poor woman.

I am so sorry for her....justice must be done.

Jean Marc

Jul 16th 2010, 00:50

What a shame. to let such awful things happen on such a beautifull island. Malta Transport, whoever is responsible ...you have no balls to take action. Read last Sundays' papers and see that by 2012 many tourists are heading to Metts. that means Marocco, Egypt, Tunisia and Turkey. You really know how to market for tourists. What a shame!!!

Gary Davies

Jul 16th 2010, 00:36

I live in Mellieha and have done for a year. I was in xemxija this evening waiting on a bus to Mellieha village. I normally get the 450, 45, 44 because i am a regular traveller and it is 47c on these buses as opposed to 1.16c on the 48 or 645 service. I am not tight with money, but over a dozen trips, why should i pay 8 euros more in a week?? Anyway, because of time i got the 645 knowing it was 1.16 euro, however, on boarding the bus the driver demanded 1.20 to the Mellieha stop next to shoppers. I never queried it, sat down and looked at my ticket which stated 1.16.
My point is, who the hell does that driver think he is DEMANDING over the price fares?
Move into the EU bus drivers or look for other work, you are working in a service industry that puts food on your familie's table. Stop abusing it.
Can i just add that on the 44, 45, 450 services i have NEVER had this

Mandy Spiteri

Jul 15th 2010, 23:28

Maltese bus drivers disgust me! Granted not all of them, but I'd say 98% of them. Every week I am short changed because they automatically keep the 3 cents. Once driver in particular short changed me 4 times last week on the same route. I kept my hand out until he handed it over, not before he gave me a dirty look and foul language under his breath!

They are rude, scruffy, and some of them are dirty, with hands full of oil. They swear, talk on mobiles, smoke....it's endless! Tourists are their bread & butter, but they are so stupid that they don't even think!

They will never change.......NEVER!

C.Tonna

Jul 15th 2010, 23:28

Di bis serjita !!!
igifiri cempel 112 u tawa number iehor al pulizija tal belt.
igifiri jin jek inkun qeda nigi repjata u ncempel 112 jtuni number iehor u rid incempel lijlu ... mhux jilhqu jamlu festa bija =S
lovely ... im happy living in malta -_-

Mercieca

Jul 15th 2010, 23:27

This reported facts alone are worrying. The truth is that incidents similar or even worse than this happen everyday by the dozens - the victims being both Maltese and foreigners. It is high time that the country's most important customers are not left in the hands of these barbarians. The air of arrogance of some of our bus drivers can be sensed from their driving habits. Some of which give the impression that they derive satisfaction from creating unneecessary traffic jams by stopping in the middle of the roads even where bus bays are ample - "ghax jien xufier tat-trakk f' Malta u d-dinja kollha ddur mieghi" . There should be no waiting for the reform to happen. The culprits need to be removed with immediate effect. Sorry ...."Reform" is a weak word in these circumstances..... we need to impliment a brand new public transport system sensitive to the needs of our guests and residents alike. For the new system to work it would need to be closely regulated by an Authority that is competent and which brings the need of the customers before any other's.

Kathleen Barlow

Jul 15th 2010, 22:48

I was screamed at by a bus driver on the number 19 to Marsascala once because I asked for my change. He took my ticket and threw it at me then proceeded to drive like a madman - endangering the lives of every person on the bus. I was so intimidated, I accepted his attitude and sat down quitely. All for the sake of 3c. Totally ridiculous. I feel for this lady alot and the driver in question should have been suspended IMMEDIATELY pending an investigation...then fired!

p attard

Jul 15th 2010, 22:20

This story reminds me of the situation in Gozo. When one exits the magnificent terminal at Mgarr and heads for the grey bus, the bus stop sign indicates that the fare for Victoria is E 0.47; but ALL drivers charge 50 cents! I know what I am saying because I visit the beautiful sister island frequently!

fabian muliet

Jul 15th 2010, 22:19

Maybe next time these tourists come back here we will have our reformed public transport system... NEW BUSES BUT WITH THE SAME DRIVERS LOL

Allan Gatt

Jul 15th 2010, 22:01

Most bus drivers are good, honest people, really; maybe a bit gruff, but that's a coping mechanism against the humdrum routine imposed upon them, and it sure as hell is easier on the nerves than all that fake PR garbage that you get from customer service personnel. 'Have a nice day, SIR! Please come again!' UGH. I'd have more respect for her if she'd tell customers: 'Either buy something or get the hell out, you twit!' Of course, that's a big no-no in this our age of the consumer economy, where customers are never happy no matter what happens, and where everybody is expected to kiss their bums through the triple layer of shopping bags slapping against it.

But this doesn't mean some aren't just asking for it. I had a near death experience with one of them once, a smarmy little titch who kept us all waiting 45 minutes in his bus, our brains baking like blueberry muffins in the heat, whilst he and another member of the So Solid Crew tried breaking into his own car. It threw me into a dimension of pissed-off I've never been in my life, I can tell you.

Antoinette Pace

Jul 15th 2010, 21:35

il-poplu Malti rasu iebsa,mma ghandu bzonn li jeduka ruhu,specjalment dawk li x-xoghol taghhom jirrikjedi hafna hin mal-klienti.Fil-kaz ta dan id-driver,il-bord tad-dixxiplina,forsi tkeccih ma tantx tista b`daqshekk tghinu,mma forsi tista tibghatu psychology teraphy.Ghax dan zgur ghandu problema kbira ta`kif jirrelata mal-klienti tieghu u forsi wkoll mal-persuni qribu.Izda fuq kollox ittiehdu passi

Antoinette Pace

Jul 15th 2010, 21:09

Ahna Malta ndumu hafna biex nedukaw lil-poplu taghna.Il-poplu malti rasu iebsa u li trid tghaddi tieghu dejjem.Imbaghad jehodha kontra min ghandu l-awtorita,ghax fl-ahhar iddecidha li jzommlu ftit tad-dixxiplina.Niex bhal dan id-driver li nahseb ghandu problema kbira kif jirrelata mal-klienti tieghi,nahseb li l-bord tad-dixxiplina tista tghinhu ftit,minflokk tkeccih,tista forsi tibghatu xi ftit ghal psycho teraphy.

l.farr ugia

Jul 15th 2010, 20:27

Jekk dak li qalet Isabel Cuesta huwa veru kif nahseb li huwa dan ix-xufier mhux jehel multa ghandu imma jitkecca minn xogholu u tigi sospiza l-licenzja tas-sewqan. Dan mhux sempliciment incident ta ftit centezmi imma kaz fejn l-isem Malta minhabba fih se jithammeg zgur go Spanja kif qalet din it-turista. L-edukazzjoni tax-xufiera ghanda tkun parti mir-riforma kif hafna ilhom jghidu.

john micallef

Jul 15th 2010, 20:17

The PTA, which represents bus drivers, thanked Ms Reymundo Cuesta for her report and pointed out that, had she had filed the complaint while in Malta, they would have been able to take urgent action.

Call the firing squad!

James De Giorgio

Jul 15th 2010, 19:51

How is that fair?

SO many Maltese individuals and I try hard to sell a positive image of our country and then you find those lousy bus drivers ruining all the effort.

Fire him and make sure he isn't employed in the public sector ever again.

X'jahseb li hu??

axuereb

Jul 15th 2010, 19:03

'Transport Malta said it had not received any reports or complaints about the incident but was investigating the matter after receiving questions on it from The Times.'. I wonder how they intend to go about it, will they be relying only on the driver's version of events?. If the story turns out to be true this driver should have his licence withdrawn for life, what if there are children on the bus who will have to witness such violent outbursts?

S.Attard

Jul 15th 2010, 18:08

B'TAL LINJA JAQBILLEK...!!!!

C. Farrugia

Jul 15th 2010, 18:05

Everybody has a right to EXPECT their change.... and in no way should we be expected to ASK for it!!! What if she gave the driver 6cents short and just nonchalanty walked to her seat?? HOLL XAGHREK U GIB IZ-ZEJT KIEKU....!!!! Anyway, conclusion is, that with MANY of them, it's always a LOSE-LOSE situation!!

Ramon Mizzi

Jul 15th 2010, 18:04

Not including those nice bus drivers who serve the public everyday, the PTA, the Malta Police and authorities concerned should take action towards scum bags like the driver referred to. This is shame on Malta's image overseas. This attitude should not be tolerated, the victim being Maltese or from overseas . PTA should dedicate more time to teach PR to these type of drivers and show them the beauty of being professional on the job.

Anthony Roberts

Jul 15th 2010, 18:03

It has to be said that not all bus drivers have bad attitudes, there are those who are most helpful and courteous and who drive carefully. Those drivers who have behaviour problems which includes smoking in a non-smoking area and driving far too fast for the safety of the passengers, then they must be turfed out or given the chance to train in how to deal with the public. We have the chance of being given a new bus service with increased fares but for us to appreciate this we must be given a better safer service.

Pierre Portelli

Jul 15th 2010, 17:45

This is why I have often preferred to walk even in sun or rain, when without a car rather than catch a bus or ride on a white taxi!

Arthur Arran

Jul 15th 2010, 17:44

My wife lost a purse when we came to the island for the first time in the early eighties. The purse was found and returned by an honest local who happened to be seated close to where we were in a Maltese bar in Valetta, I doubt if this would have happened in our country. We've been coming to the island ever since. On the buses I've found (and this is a rule of thumb) if the driver has horses or equine artifacts adorning the front of the bus, the correct change or indeed any change will not be offered. If on the other hand Christian effigies decorate the bus then the right change will be given (mostly)

john muscat

Jul 15th 2010, 17:42

What i cannot understand in this case is how when Isabel Reymundo Cuesta phoned 112 she was given the number of the Valletta Police Station and was told to speak to the police at the Valletta Bust Terminus. She called for help while being threatened and manhandelled. Surely the dispatch of a mobile unit and the immediate arrest of the culprit would have proved more effective. Ahna lkolla qed nghixu f'pajjiz tal-Mickey Mouse. Bravu Bundy.

Daniel Gordon

Jul 15th 2010, 17:27

My wife has just informed me that she took the 645 bus. She was standing ALONE at the bus stop.
The ticket costs 1.16€. She had a 2euro coin and 16cent change. She handed the driver the money and the driver asked "Two?", meaning for 2 persons......
He then had difficulty working out how much change to give her.

Is there a maximum IQ required to be a bus driver?

Jeffrey Muscat

Jul 15th 2010, 17:19

hope such drivers are removed from public service -- we cant take this any longer -- certain drivers are known for their bad attitude to passengers especially when it come to giving change -- OR not giving change at all

these are giving a bad name to our country - so hope some sort of action is taken

George Cremona

Jul 15th 2010, 17:13

It is very worrying to note that although the PTA was “well aware of this driver’s attitude” as its chairman Victor Spiteri admitted, the same driver had been kept in his job. Such arrogant persons should not be assigned with jobs that bring them in constant and direct contact with the public, tourists or otherwise. Steps should be taken against the person involved without delay so as to avoid a repetition of such incidence.

On the other hand Ms. Raymunda Cuesta would have been unfair were she to judge Malta and the Maltese on such incidences which after all happen anywhere even in her country. The difference is that the Maltese authorities gave her complaint their full attention and are resolute to take the appropriate action but in her country ( Andalusia) where I spent a holiday two years ago no one gave heed to my complaint neither the hotel management where I stayed and from where my wallet was stolen on my arrival thereat nor even the police who did not even bother to hear let alone accept a written complaint. Yet I did not vow never to visit Spain again.

S Debono

Jul 15th 2010, 17:10

I work in Tourism myself....Every day if i like it or not i come to work and smile and give tourists the best service i can. I take bad attitudes and good from many different nationalities but i still try and smile to make the tourist comfortable and welcome.... I do this because like a large percentage of the population i get my wages from tourism. Every single client ill have that asks information on buses i always end with the same sentance....Pay the bus driver, try and give the driver correct change because they like to tip themselves and don't thank you or smile at you!!! they laugh at that point and i put it in a joking but warning manner!!! Serious action must be taken from the authorities and ministers involved because this is just crazy. This driver like many others should be punished for their actions and a suspension is NOT ENOUGH!!!!!!!

Gordon Sammut

Jul 15th 2010, 17:10

Do any of the ministers read this blog and take any notice? Don't they get the hint? Or will this be forgotten (as usual)? Well done to the Times for bringing this to our attention!

M. Costa

Jul 15th 2010, 17:09

Many of the commentators below have expressed their anger towards the driver, who behaved so unprofessionally and savagely. I join them in expressing such feelings. The driver should be driving a bus in Somalia not in Malta.

In Malta we still have amongst us a large amount of violent, ignorant, brash, uncouth and unsophisticated individuals. Many bus drivers form part of this group. I don't have time for excuses along the lines of "not all bus drivers are like that" - of course they are not ALL like that. Even if 30% are like that, it is already too many.

R.Borg

Jul 15th 2010, 17:08

Trasport Malta was "well aware of this bus driver's attitudes":

SO CHUCK HIM OUT ('very simple, my dear Watson, should to say Sherlock Holmes").
HE IS NO GOOD TO BE A BUS DRIVER.
NEXT TIME HE WILL INVOLVE HIMSELF AND PASSENGERS IN A SERIOUS ACCIDENT and then "it is useless crying over spilt milk".

M. Degiorgio

Jul 15th 2010, 16:43

We should organise a civil defence system where we, as public transport users could organise a boycott against certain bus drivers. The individual louts will eventually go out of business or have to get sacked.

Emmanuel Ebejer

Jul 15th 2010, 16:35

During the bus drivers' strike, a few years ago, we all witnessed how low certain bus drivers are capable of going. I honestly do not mean all bus drivers...my emphasis is on 'CERTAIN' drivers.

H Galea

Jul 15th 2010, 16:34

Mr Spiter will you inform the public if you have more of such dirvers in stock. Here is my complain that happened this morning. While me and my wife ware walking on the pavement of St James Ditch, just between two buses got the full view of a driver URINATING. Are your men out of their mind or you have no control.In this country we are getting out of control, they behave worse then little children.

M.Zammit Damato

Jul 15th 2010, 16:34

Yesterday i was disappionted about how a bus driver was speaking to the people ingeneral!!! He was saying ''ejja hurry up'' what kind of language is this!!!! I am a student attending I.T.S and as i can see it's our fault that malta is suffering lack of tourists because this is not a friendly service. ADT must stand up and do their job and take actions againts these kind of people we need to be nice to people because tourism is important for malta!!!!

Anthony Agius

Jul 15th 2010, 16:29

Good One Malta we have an other star to add to our illustriuos galaxy of selfish, self serving and arrogant public servants who think that might means right , instead of trying to be kind and decent so these (legal tourist) can have a good time in our fair country and go back and promote it through word of mouth .. remember the old saying .. never bite the hand that feeds you and puts food on your table for you and your family

Harry Forrester

Jul 15th 2010, 16:19

yes 6c is a bit of money - but if any person pays the price and demands the required change, no one can refuse to give it!

Also, lets says that the bus driver never gives change on such a route - in that case, he is getting 6c per person. I assume that buses have an average of 200 users a day, especially in summer - that equates to a minimum of 12eur to the bus driver, 84 euro a week, 336 eur a month, 4032 eur a year! Im sure that the bus driver claims tax on such income right?

Joe Grima Brussels

Jul 15th 2010, 16:05

I agree with an earlier contribution, that the tourists involved are given some compensation, to repair the damage done. I believe that is what happened some years ago, although in different circumstances. If my memory is correct, a tourist was injured during a hold up in a jewellery shop, in Qawra, I believe.
Regarding the cowboys in the association, who give a bad name to the many exemplary drivers: I am sure that during privatization talks, some union will INSIST that the new management keeps ALL workers!!!!!!

Eleanor Harrison-Xerri

Jul 15th 2010, 15:55

On buses in Malta I have experienced sexual harassment, casual racism, violence and any number of negative experiences. I have had bus drivers attempt to overcharge me, make revolting sexually charged comments and seen a whole raft of thuggish behaviour. Friends of mine have even reported being thrown off buses late at night and left to walk where the driver couldn't be bothered to finish a shift! All bus drivers may not be this bad but a significant number have behaviour outrageous enough to warrant an entire rehaul of the job's selection criteria and monitoring!

Malcolm Mifsud

Jul 15th 2010, 15:21

@susan galea

Must have taken the wrong impression, what I wrote and meant is not what you are thinking.

carmen grech

Jul 15th 2010, 15:10

I was in Malta with my late mother four years ago. We were on the bus going from sleima to Valetta. The bus braked to miss a car and my mother ( age 83) was flanged forward by approx six feet landing flat on her face and knees. After I helped my mother up I insisted that an anbulance is called to take my mother to the hospital for a check up. This took at least half an hour as the bus driver and car driver wanted to continue with thier journey. The police finally arrived and I was made to feel like a trouble maker and that I was making stupid and unnecessary demands.
In England it would have been standard procedure for police to attend the incident and they would have insisted that my mother attended hospital for a check up. We would have been treated with great kindness. I was ashamed to be Maltese. So much for the kind Maltese people.

Andrew Paris

Jul 15th 2010, 14:56

If he had laid one hand on me I would have charged him with assult. I think the EU needs to step in and take control of the bus problem in Malta.

R.Gauci

Jul 15th 2010, 14:56

I would like to apologize again with Ms Isabel Reymundo Cuesta and others which had bad experiences while using the Maltese Bus Service.
However not all the bus service is bad how some people are saying and if you ask some tourists which travelled in Malta by bus the majority will tell you that they were able to go everywhere paying a cheap fare, so I can't refrain from pointing my finger to the present and past Transport Ministers and Authorities for not being capable to operate simple reforms like installing CCTV and Data Tracking and make obligatory Driving/Safety/Customer Care Courses to curb abuses and assess drivers.
Please also note that the ticketing system should be change as in use in other Countries that is you pay exact fare only in a special safe box and the driver will just issue the tickets.
If you don't have the correct amount you will get a voucher which you will exchange at the Bus Company office so the prices should be rounded up let say 1 euro for adults and 50c for pensioners and children.
The wages paid to drivers should go up too making this job attractive also to qualified people!

Terry Betty

Jul 15th 2010, 14:46

I think that the Maltese bus drivers are worst hated people on the island by most of us visiters, do same as we and go to Malta during the quiet season Jan-March. not many tourists hardly any now most are wiser of the problems on the islands and needless to say less froreign students making a mess especially around the Bugibba area and PV.

DVella

Jul 15th 2010, 14:29

Why is the individual concerned still allowed to drive a public transport vehicle when the PTA have admitted that they are 'well aware of this driver's attitude'???

This statement suggests that there have been previous similar incidents indicating that this person is clearly incapable and not competent to perform a job which involves giving a service to people . . . . !

why is this man still in a driver's seat?? When will we learn? How can we ever expect to improve if no serious and decisive action is taken in reprehensible cases like this?

monica cauchi

Jul 15th 2010, 14:21

i sympathise with Ms Cuesta. i had a similar incident on a Valletta Rabat bus. the driver was ever so arrogant, and threatened me ' ara ma tqabzejk il barra' something to that effect. All this because i asked if the bus passed from near St Joseph's home. i wrote to the authorities concerned,and although i said that no answer was necessary, as there was no justification for such behaviour, no reply was sent. I gave all details, but rest assured that the driver is still up and about exercising his arrogance and power.
@ M. Mealclaff

It is not for the 6c.. imagine if the person decided to give the driver 40c instead of 47c!! i will leave it up to your imagination what the outcome would have been...
'it depends if she shouted or not.'.. it would not have been necessary if she did, if he just gave her what was duly hers.... any excuse to justify their behaviour. SHAME SHAME SHAME.

Jesmond Micallef

Jul 15th 2010, 14:12

Whilst I am always against any form of ill treatment of human beings and indeed other God's creations but dear Media and all, even the "small little" Maltese are sometimes ill treated by "much larger" vertebrates of the two legged upright form "hiding" behind an image, when they are abroad.

I tend to relate IMAGE to mirages, illusions and hallucinations and running away from the truth, which might hurt the pride.!!

E. Azzopardi

Jul 15th 2010, 14:09

Of course the authorities should take action and serious action for that matter. Have we come to this now? And the Transport Association too.
One has to take care of his/her job irrespective of whether this is guaranteed or not!!!!
And to think back of all that money, our moeny, which was given to them. I would have put certain conditions and not give them a job guarantee for ten years.
I am afraid that we shall see more of this in the future, God help the "New Transport System".

Aaron de Giorgio

Jul 15th 2010, 14:00

I live and work in Spain. I am Maltese and took up arms against the lousy attitude surrounding many providers of public and civil services, from the bus services to the postal services, libraries, government departments. I always got an apology, and in one instance the PM intervened in my favour. The problem is tomorrow is another day and everything remains unchanged. Europe is in 2010 and Malta lives on in the 1950s. The level of service provision is what brings the customer back - the damage such an incident creates probably exceeds €1million on Brand Malta campaigns. Let's get this sorted out ONCE AND FOR ALL.

R Alcock,NZ

Jul 15th 2010, 13:56

I love using the buses in Malta and think they do a great job. I visit Malta for a holiday quite often and one of the highlights is taking a bus somewhere. Drivers in my opinion do an excellent job under sometimes very difficult conditions. Well done Drivers!!

Michael Neville Cassar

Jul 15th 2010, 13:50

The bus driver which didn’t give me any change got a slap in the back from court ,now we have more than one situation which is blackening the rest of the bus drivers also discourages Tourist to return to Malta.

J Oatmon

Jul 15th 2010, 13:49

Why are bus drivers not required to have their ID badge with their ID number fitted at the entrance to their bus, so it is clearly visible to all.
Then all complaints can be acted on effectively, and the repeat offenders/trouble makers can be denied licenses - I suppose the unions would object to this, for some daft reason?

A Mallia

Jul 15th 2010, 13:49

Brilliant! Things aren't this bad even in places we consider 3rd world, like certain North African countries, amongst others. We will never change. It's a pity we keep hoping!

O R Busuttil

Jul 15th 2010, 13:46

Mealclaff, are you for real?? I can't believe what I'm reading. This driver disgraces us and you defend him like this? Why don't you leave the key in your car so that if someone "who needs it more than you do" just takes off with it?? Maybe you'll get it back in perfect condition and earn good points in your good deeds for a place in heaven scheme!! OR MAYBE NOT.

M.Bezzina

Jul 15th 2010, 13:30

If some or a minority of these foreigners complain expecting compensation as is the usual in the UK and many other european countries, they better think twice and get the facts in order with witnesses and so forth otherwise its a waste of police and magistrate time.

Ruby Jenner

Jul 15th 2010, 13:30

I feel sorry for the two Spanish ladies as it must have been very frightening. I have been short changed many times and I am sorry to say I just sat down and let them get away with it. I have since found it is always best to give exact fare. I have also witnessed tourists being yelled at. I fear that such incidents gives Malta a bad press overseas and many will not return. Its such a shame when the Malta Tourist Board put in such a lot of effort to promote this Island as a family friendly destination. This driver should be dismissed and then other drivers with this attitude might just moderate their behaviour.

George Azzopardi

Jul 15th 2010, 13:29

My question is .. with the current reform going on, will the new company be employing these same drivers? If yes .. then we're having the same problems all over again.

I rarely use buses in Malta, only in exceptional cases and when I do I 'm almost always disgusted about something or the other.

I do however hope to use this transport in the future if something is done about it!

r pace bonello

Jul 15th 2010, 13:24

It would appear to all that these cowboys are still in full control and that nobody has the guts to address the issue once and for all. These drivers/ owners have now got, probably more than they imagined, for providing a horrendous service. Did the Authorities not forsee that after this the service was to get even worse? Was this driver one of those who was so ridiculously compensated? Is he a prosective candidate for the new service? Have they not caused enough harm - to the local travelling public who have had to put up with
them for so many years? Was it worth all the millions spent on subsidies? Are they now hell bent on destroying the lucrative tourism industry? Where are the inspectors who are supposed to supervise the system? How many times have bus drivers been booked by these inspectors?
Of course the bloggers as well as the whole travelling public has to feel appalled at the treatment given to this lady. However she has to be assured that the Bus drivers, as well as the Taxi drivers, are not typical of the Maltese people. Quite frankly I do not know where they came from !!!!!

lyn nobbs

Jul 15th 2010, 13:23

Just looking at all the comments on this subject.. Will your paper now forward these comments to the minister of transport and keep publishing articles about the buses and then some notice will have to be taken!

K.Anastasi

Jul 15th 2010, 13:21

We are our own worst enemy, suspend him now!

Caroline Said

Jul 15th 2010, 13:20

A few weeks ago on a bus to Valletta I was shortchanged and simply kept my hand out and politely asked for the change-the bus driver swore, rummaged in his coins tray and then threw the coins at my feet. I stood aghast, said thank you sarcastically and took a seat. Speaking in English I was for him probably a tourist which I am not. The authorities should demonstrate zero tolerance for thuggish behaviour among public transport workers because they are too closely tied to the tourism industry. The driver should be immediately suspended pending investigation and then if found guilty of the offense, should be fined the equivalent of what it would cost for Ms. Cuesta and her friend to hire a chauffeur driven vehicle during their next visit to Malta if they should so gratiously reconsider revisiting. That would pretty quickly make those bus divers inclined to behave like bullish thugs think twice.

Joe Grima Brussels

Jul 15th 2010, 13:20

Mr Spiteri said that the association was well aware about this driver. So why was no action ever taken? Now that he has done furture damage to our tourist industry, hopefully he will get what he deserves.
When I worked in the tourist industry, some years back, sometimes hurt tourists would hand me a bus number, and ask me to call the Association and report certain incidents. A frequent complain on a particular route was submitted by elderly tourists, complaining that the bus driver did not follow the supposed route, but took an easier one, thus making the elderly and young alike walk for 15-20 minutes! One case involved a couple with a wheelchair case! In spite of several calls, sometimes speaking to Mr Spiteri himself, the situation remained practically unchanged. Only a couple of 'exemplary' drivers followed the planned route! In the worst case, a couple asked the driver why he had changed the route, and when an inspector boarded the bus, they thought that relief was at hand. Unfortunately, they were told that the driver was right!!!!
I hope that in my absence, things have changed.

Glenn Travers

Jul 15th 2010, 13:15

The reality is that if the bus fare is 47c and you get charged 50c the driver is stealing 3c. Simply, he is a thief. In the UK, he would be sacked, no question of it.
In London, they have a system called Oyster card which is like a credit card that can be topped up at newsagents etc and the passenger swipes it on a machine when getting on a bus (or going thru to take a tube train) and it automatically deducts the fare. It is also slightly cheaper than other payment methods. This would be ideal for adoption by Malta as you always pay the correct fare.

susan galea

Jul 15th 2010, 13:15

@ Malcolm Mifsud: you are having a laugh, right? If not you are just giving a fine example of the kind of moronic boor that makes life here much more tedious than it need be. Or maybe you are just slow... She told us what happened and the fact this was in front of witnesses who leapt to her defence shows that you are tapping before thinking. Calm down; breathe, and think. No need to apologise, baby steps..

Alfred Mizzi

Jul 15th 2010, 13:09

With so many and endless negative comments from tourists are we experiencing the begening of the end of the tourist industry in Malta? lets face it these people come here to spend their money for our bread and butter and what are we doing........cutting our noises to spite our faces. Pull your socks up or start queuing at the labour exchange.

Patrick Sacco

Jul 15th 2010, 13:04

I am feeling ashamed instead of the bus driver. How could he sink so low? Kindly seek who this caveman is, report him to the competent authorites and see that he gets what he deserves!

Joseph E Briffa

Jul 15th 2010, 13:02

Shows what the uneducated Maltese can be like ......The Maltese on the whole don't like the Arabs - in their insular mind an Arab equates with a Libyan; an Italian is a Sicilian Mafioso. The uneducated Maltese thinks that all Arabs and Blacks are write-offs, blisfully forgetting that he himself is usually primitive, downright rude, pugnacious and aggressive. Unless we weed out these undesirable characters I can't see much improvement in the public transport service. It's not the vehicles that make the service it's the people who run it, particularly the ones that come into contact with the public, the driver and the inspectors.

malcolm mason

Jul 15th 2010, 13:00

in many british towns and citys on the buses they now have a machine you put your fare in (exact fare no change is ever given even from notes) the driver does not touch the money the depot removes the safe box at the end of shift and all extra is taken by the company . at least you know in advance your not getting change and at least you dont get insulted of threatened perhaps this should be introduced on the new buses

Charles Muscat

Jul 15th 2010, 13:00

I failed to understand where the kindness is.

susanne herold

Jul 15th 2010, 12:51

Mr. Mealclaff

on which planet are you living!

DVella

Jul 15th 2010, 12:48

'. . . they are well aware of this driver's attitude' - seems to imply that this is not the first time such a shameful incident has happened . . . whether with a foreign visitor or a local . . . so why is this individual still in a driver's seat and being allowed to do a job he is clearly incapable of doing?? Why is there talk of suspension at all?? If anything suspension should have occurred ages ago when the PTA first became aware of this 'attitude' . . . . as things stand, this man should be seeking a different job . . . preferebly one that never brings him into contact with human beings!!!! Yet we talk about an 'investigation' that will undoubtedly be followed by (guess . . ) a REPORT . . . that will be copied in threefold and presented to a committee . . . that will deliberate on its contents . . . and in the meantime some neanderthal lout continues to terrorize people with his disgusting behaviour!! What a pathetic country . . . no wonder things never improve at all ! !

Yanes Desira

Jul 15th 2010, 12:45

I needed to use public transport last winter......the fair is 0.47c one way - change almost always not given. When asking for change the majority will result in a break when ready to leave the bus. I was keen on it and thanks god never fell down. I have experienced it many times. If one uses the public transport daily, with the change given can ride a bus every 16 times.

Paul Gauci

Jul 15th 2010, 12:44

Yesterday I had a very bad argument with a bus driver on the bus 65 at San gwann on the way to St Julians. The bus route ends in sliema however this driver decided that he should stop at St julians and started telling everyone not to come up unless they will stop at St julians. When I pointed out to him that the 65 should proceed to sliema he got angry, swore and said "Jien mhux bil malti qed inkellmek!??? Irkibt karozza ohra!!"

Are these the drivers who were compensated to the tune of 55million euros??? The cherry on the cake would ve if they managed to win the tender for the new public transport network. That would be a national robbery!!!! SHAME!!!!

Brian Camilleri

Jul 15th 2010, 12:44

shame again!!! look at all these tourists complaining. when are we going to learn?!?!?!

J.Mifsud

Jul 15th 2010, 12:40

Yesterday morning I caught the number 8 bus from the airport, and many tourists got on to get to Valletta, they all paid for their tickets and also for their luggage without any complaints. So the bus was rather full. By the time we got to paola many passengers were standing in the isle and wonders of wonder, a rather plump noisy woman started shouting, that as she was a Maltese citizen and that Malta was her country , she was entitled to a seat. It is here that I admired the bus driver, he was very diplomatic, he told her that under the sun everyone was the same and as the tourists had paid for their seat they had a right to it. He asked her that if the passengers had been Maltese would she have done the same. At the time I thought to myself that if the passengers had been illegal immigrants what would she have done. I am Maltese and love my country, but some people are really way behind in manners and education, and you can find them allover the island. The bus driver in the article should be suspended, also others like him.

L. Dimech

Jul 15th 2010, 12:36

What a disgrace these people are - if they are not capable of facing people why don't they just keep away? Of course, if you calculate how much 'extra' they make per month - it does add up - and that's also tax free to boot !!

However, whilst I rarely take the public transport, I had to travel on a bus once. The driver looked dirty, with a not too neat stubble and had a bad word to say to everyone. He drove like a madman and there was an old woman on the front seat who really looked like having a bad time. As soon as we arrived in Valletta, he shot out of his seat and went over to the steps at the same time calling out for everybody to remain seated. We all looked at each other uncomfortably.

Unbelievably, he went to the old woman, took her bag and gently helped her down the steps, as he was afraid she would hurt in the 'stampede'. I can tell you he stole everybody's heart and people getting down were all congratulating him and wishing him a good day !!

It really doesn't take much, does it !!

Pauline Thompson

Jul 15th 2010, 12:33

This incident will make potential visitors flocking to Malta!! If the PTA were aware of the driver's behaviour, why was he still driving a bus & working with the public? Isabel had to ask for her change, why? She should have had her change without having to ask. Was the reason that this bus driver got aggrevated about was because his daily tips from short changing his passengers didn't sum up to what he'd expected to make on the day? PTA thanked and advised Isabel that had she filed her complaint whilst in Malta they would have been able to take urgent action!! So what happens now she is back in Spain? Case dismissed - no further action & the bus driver carrying on with his aggression behaviour.

Reuben Vella

Jul 15th 2010, 12:30

As a side not....one thing that is emerging, apart from the bad attitude and manners of certain bus drivers, is the lack of professionalism of the 112 service. Considering this is an emergency number, I expect (yes, expect as a tax paying citizen) that this service is spot on. A life may be at stake when a call is made to this service, so you expect to have the best possible service, not just get another phone number or being hung up upon.

Which entity is responsible for this service?

Malcolm Mifsud

Jul 15th 2010, 12:30

@ M Mealclaff

Qieghed fix-xemx jaqaw? How did she ask for the 6c? Was she screaming and shouting?

Brian Camilleri

Jul 15th 2010, 12:29

sigh........ what a sad news. its a shame!!

Luke Spiteri

Jul 15th 2010, 12:29

Please someone take action on these rude bus drivers and also include taxi drivers. These drivers should be given such courses if they FAIL to attend or pass the exam they will not be given the licence to drive a bus or taxi.

IMMEDIATE ACTION SHOULD BE TAKEN. THESE PEOPLE GIVE A BAD IMAGE TO OUR COUNTRY.

Maltese are helpful, kind and open to give a helping hand. NOT RUDE and VIOLENT.

Adrian Bajada

Jul 15th 2010, 12:26

All this embarrassment about asking or waiting for your change or dealing with unruly busdrives has been going on for ages. Only one solution to this. Introduce the weekly or monthly pass that can be purchased from newsagents or Stationers etc. It is done in England and Canada etc. It saves not only looking the right change or expecting it from the driver. You buy the pass same as you would buy a mobile card and walk on the bus. Show it to the driver and take your seat. There is no stress in that for no one. What is the hold up to introudce the pass and forget that silly red machine that never worked.

Noel Tonna

Jul 15th 2010, 12:21

I travel to many other countries for work and I have never encountered anything like this, not even in third world countries. Have we not learned anything over the years? Do we or do we not want tourists to visit us? Take the UK, British bus drivers wear shirts and tie as do most of the taxi drivers. I have not been on a bus where I don't get change or greeted with a smile a hello and a thank you! What does it take to be a little polite and respectable towards others? Do we not have anybody to show these people that they are doing us more harm then good? The likes of this guy ruin the economy, most of us depend on tourists visiting our country. I sincerly hope that all bus drivers are screened for their misbehaviour and not employed by the new transport company. Start by releasing this person from public transport, he should not be allowed to treat people anyway except with dignity and respect whether Maltese or otherwise. Driving on Maltese roads has nothing to do with it. The drivers abroad share thesame fate as they do.

Katherine Cooke

Jul 15th 2010, 12:16

My experience of the airport bus was a rude impatient driver who even charges for luggage, when other drivers don't.

On my last visit, we got on one of these buses and because of the fast driving, I fell out of my seat. When he saw me on the floor, he said "It's your fault you should have hung onto the seat" and just laughed.

Please do something about these drivers before you lose the tourists.

Sarah Engerer

Jul 15th 2010, 12:13

That was it I was truly insulted. If a bus driver has the audacity to speak to me like that (someone he may potentially encounter again) I wonder how he treats tourists. His supervisor came over to the bus and I explained what had happened - the bus driver (again in broken English as if I hadn't been speaking in Maltese and needed to be spoken to in English) said "the SUN was in my EYES when you spoke to me so I couldn't HEAR what you were telling me" PERFECT! OUR LIVES AND THOSE OF FOREIGNERS ARE IN YOUR HANDS AND YET YOU CAN'T TELL THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN HEARING AND SEEING!! I, not so very diplomatically, reminded him that he was at a standstill at Valletta bus terminus with 15 minutes to spare when I approached him and that I would be going to make a full complaint! As you can imagine neither the bus driver nor his supervisor tried to apologize - their mentality is you can complain til you are blue in the face NO ACTION WILL BE TAKEN AGAINST US!!


WELLDONE ADT (OR WHOEVER RECRUITS SUCH PEOPLE) CLEARLY YOUR RECRUITMENT SKILLS ARE TOP NOTCH!!

J.Butcher

Jul 15th 2010, 12:12

I must say that these drivers are a minority doing big harm to the lovely island.
On the other hand most citizens are honest and charming, just yesterday I was walking at Valletta when I accidently dropped my wallet filled with cash. I didn't notice that I dropped it and after a few minutes this young gentleman came running after me with my wallet in his hands! In other places this could have easily been robbed!
Pitty I don't have the name of this gentleman as I would have thanked him personally!

Sarah Engerer

Jul 15th 2010, 12:12

They gave me some numbers so I thought it best to enquire with the respective bus driver beforehand. I got up onto bus number 49 and asked the bus driver if he went to Qawra and more importantly if he passed by that specific hotel to which he answered yes. I asked which was the best bus to catch from the numbers I had been advised to take, to which he answered "I have already told you I pass by there now if you want come up otherwise get off" (obviously not so politely). So 15 minutes later we left. Number 49 never went to Qawra it passed through St. Paul's Bay and Bugibba stopping at Bugibba Bus Terminus. Cont!

I went to the bus driver and asked him why he told me he went to Qawra and chose to take me for a ride when it was clear that I was not fit to walk from Bugibba to Qawra in the blazing sun GIVEN MY HAND HAD JUST BEEN OPERATED ON DUE TO ANOTHER BUS DRIVER'S UTTER NEGLIGENCE!!. He turned to the people on the bus and in broken English said "Don't worry about her she is F**** crazy".

G Brewsky

Jul 15th 2010, 12:09

This has to be some sort of record here!!!

35 comments on a story and not one of them includes "let he who is without sin cast the first stone"

Well done Malta - well done

Sarah Engerer

Jul 15th 2010, 12:09

In one week I have had two incidents with bus drivers. No. 1 - as i was making my way round a round about a bus driver saw it fit to ignore a give way sign drive on to the round about driving straight into the back left wing of my car. Although it was clear cut that the bus driver was in the wrong (he didn't even bother breaking) he emerged swearing at me, accusing me of being blind and stupid - Obviously I didn't bother comparing credentials with him at this point! As one can imagine the car suffered quite a bump as did I. I went to hospital to find I had suffered a dislocated shoulder which needed to be operated on. I was told I could not drive for 3 weeks as my arm had to be kept strapped at all times. Therefore I HAD to make use of public transport!

Not having used public transport in a while, upon arriving at the bus terminus in Valletta I asked what bus number would take me to Qawra (giving them a particular hotel as a landmark to ensure I get on the right bus).
Cont!

joe farrugia

Jul 15th 2010, 12:04

I have also witnessed such an aggressive and violent behaviour outside one of the clubs in Paceville where a bouncer of a particular club (renowned for the 80s music) started to beat an innocent Maltese man outside the club. It seems that people (whether Maltese or foreigners) are feeling helpless when faced with such situations. No need to say that these bouncers are rendering these places as unfit for our young and even adult generations.

Having seen this incident, I would rather prefer to stay at home than to go clubbing in this area.

Rita Borg

Jul 15th 2010, 12:04

Where is all the small change, left to the bus drivers going? A ticket costs 47cents, most people give 50cents and end up leaving the change to driver.... are these considered tips and therefore the driver pockets them? You do the maths....

M Mealclaff

Jul 15th 2010, 12:00

I think the Tourist could have let it go.
All this trouble over 6 cents !!
The Bus driver obviously needs it more than she does.

Also, how did she ask for the 6 cents ? was she screaming and shouting ?
Was he insulted ?

Come on !
Sometimes things must be weighed up and ask yourself the question:
Is it really worh the hassle..

6 cents !!!

j.schembri

Jul 15th 2010, 11:57

I NEVER WAS GIVEN THE EXACT CHANGE.......ALWAYS 4c, 2c OR 1c SHORT AND SOMETIMES NO CHANGE AT ALL!!!!!!
THE BEST THING TO DO IS TO GIVE THEM THE EXACT FARE.

t. borg

Jul 15th 2010, 11:56

ahjar ma qrajtx xejn dan l-artiklu ghax dardart l-istonku bl-inkompitenza tal-pta. biljett qatt m'ghandu jkun 94 cents izda ghad-dritt ghax il-bqija qed johduhom ix-xufiera. ix-xufiera ambaxxaturi tal-maltin. mhux kollha hemm tajbin imma hemm uhud li m'ghadhomx jigu afdati bin-nies.
" they were “well aware of this driver’s attitude” mr. chairman please resign immediately you will be doing your country a great service.

n mifsud

Jul 15th 2010, 11:55

this is becoming very common that bus drivers dont give change. this happend to me when my son and i went to valletta for Malta's biggest dance. we took the bus form mosta to valletta. i gave the bus driver 1euro and he had to give me 4 or 6 cents change. but instead he just took the 1 euro, gave me the tickets and took off without even bothering to give me the change. i was afraid to ask for it so we just sat down!

G. Grech

Jul 15th 2010, 11:53

Driving on the Maltese roads is very difficult. I can imagine a bus driver suffering from an acute nervous breakdown, but I can't see how he is still facing customers on a public bus.

...and I can't understand how the government is securing their job when the new operator takes over. I hope that these people go through an evaluation before they are allowed to drive a bus again.

JOHN O SCERRI

Jul 15th 2010, 11:51

.'..When contacted, association chairman Victor Spiteri later clarified the association expected an investigation to be held before action was taken, adding they were “well aware of this driver’s attitude”.

So why was action not taken in time.

Look what happened ......

Some, not all bus drivers have a lot to learn when it comes to manners, atire, mode of speech,Language, general behaviour when observing people expecially females strolling along the sidewalks of Valletta terminus.

This driver in particular needs some serious help .
It is not proper for a normal person to behave in such a manner.

MARK MIFSUD BONNICI

Jul 15th 2010, 11:50

"association chairman Victor Spiteri later clarified the association expected an investigation to be held before action was taken, adding they were “well aware of this driver’s attitude”..

DOES ANYONE REMEMBER THE "BRAND MALTA" CAMPAIGN.

THIS DRIVER AND VICTOR SPITERI SHARE EQUAL RESPONSABILITY FOR THIS SHAME.

If indeed we are to better our COUNTRY'S image such people should be stricken off their duties without any excuses OR THE USUAL INTERVENTION FROM FRIENDS IN HIGH PLACES.

Andre` Micallef

Jul 15th 2010, 11:48

Quite a number of inconsiderate individuals like this neanderthal bus driver are literally killing the goose which lays the golden egg. Tourism is Malta's lifeblood. In addition to the endless list of shortcomings with which our public transport system is cursed, what about those horrid stereos on a large number of buses blaring away dreadful sounds which I don't dare call music? Are they going to be completely banned once the much-awaited reform finally comes under way? And then the PTA has the cheek to issue a printed message on bus tickets to "enjoy your trip"!

Mark Seychell

Jul 15th 2010, 11:45

'When contacted, association chairman Victor Spiteri later clarified the association expected an investigation to be held before action was taken, adding they were “well aware of this driver’s attitude”.'

Then why is he in your employ, Spiteri??

This company acts less like a company and more like a trade union.

J Brownie

Jul 15th 2010, 11:45

Is it with these type of drivers that the reform in public transport going to take place - because if i remember corretly the proposed reform shall absorb the previous drivers no ?

lyn nobbs

Jul 15th 2010, 11:43

Again and again this problem rears its ugly head! As a Brit. who returns regullarly to your lovely island I can't understand why this is allowed to go on. My elderly friend, who lives in Malta, was abandoned when her bus broke down late at night . The driver made a phone call and a car picked him up and he just left his two passengers stranded! We have just come to accept the bad manners and dangerous driving as the norm but I'm afraid very soon something tragic is going to happen and then perhaps someone will do something about it.

M. Camilleri

Jul 15th 2010, 11:41

Jien ukoll grali li tajt 50 cents lil bus driver u ma taniex bqija ... ma qadtx inhaqqaqha mieghu ghand fil-pozizzjoni li jien bhalissa l-inkwiet mhux tajjeb ghalija. Imma allavolja 3 cents hassejt li kien gest arroganti minn naha ta' dan il-bus driver li jassumi li m'ghandux ghalfejn jaghtini l-bqija.

Veru li Transport Malta trid taghmel l-investigazzjonijiet taghha sewwa qabel tissospendi impjegat, izda issa mhux fl-investigazzjoni insiru nafu li dan il-bus driver jigi il-kugin tan-neputi tal-ghasfur tal-bejt ta' xi ras kbira, u jinkines kollox taht it-tapit !!

Wara kollox ma tantx jawgura tajjeb ghat-turizmu Malti, u Ms Isabel Reymundo Cuesta tidher determinata li taqsam l-esperjenza taghha mal-gurnali Spanjoli, hekk kif ghamlet mat-Times of Malta.

Way to go ghaziz bus driver !!!

Kenneth Cassar

Jul 15th 2010, 11:38

"We were very scared and I called 112 from my mobile phone. They gave me the number of the Valletta police station and told me to speak to the police at the Valletta bus terminus".

The standard practice in all modern states is for the person behind the emergency phone to take notes, and while doing so, another person makes any other necessary phone calls him/herself.

If the above quote is true, it appears we have no emergency service here.

Charles Zammit

Jul 15th 2010, 11:37

May I on behalf of decent Maltese apologise to Ms Isabel Reymundo Cuesta and assure her that we are not anywhere as lowlife as this idiot .
@ Edward Gatt . Whyis it people like you have to bring politics int every little incident in Malta ? Surely this incident is due to IGNORANCE hence the behaviour of this uncouth idiot and not political , I'm afraid people with your mentality and blinded by fanatical politics do not lend themselves to educating such louts . May the authorities take drastic action if this driver is founf guilty of such behaviour . In England suc an incident would incur an assault charge .

C. Azzopardi

Jul 15th 2010, 11:31

I assume this person is also one of the beneficiaries of that nice cheque for a total of €53 million kindly donated to the bus owners by Hon. Austin 'Strong with the weak, weak with the strong' Gatt and the chances are that, like the majority of these cowboys, he will still be a bus driver post privatisation. That's just as sad as it gets!

Karl Consiglio

Jul 15th 2010, 11:31

Not all but many a bus driver is an embarrassment to our country, they really ought to be weeded out.

victor pulis

Jul 15th 2010, 11:22

Mr. Victor Spiteri said that the association was “well aware of this driver’s attitude”.
So this is not his first offence. Why the heck is he still working on the routes? What is the association waiting for to suspend him for good? It is clear that this person is not fit to do this kind of job. One bad apple can ruin the work done by hundreds who work in the tourist industry. If as Ms. Cuesta said she would write in the Spanish newspapers think of the damage it would do to our industry. All because of a neanderthal who is unable to act civilized.

Anna Farrugia

Jul 15th 2010, 11:22

A leopard will never change its spots! Unfortunately such people will never learn how to behave . Educate them...how long are these sorts going to be finally educated socially? Will they ever...? I doubt it for some have nothing between their ears...

Joe E Galea

Jul 15th 2010, 11:21

The authorities should nail such an ignorant person and show that they take tourism seriously. Tourism is one of Malta's life blood. This tourist and her friend should be given a compensation as another holiday in Malta flight and lodging for free. This might lessen the bad impact this highly negative incident will definitely cause. Everyone should remember that we have very tough competition from neighbouring countries who make their utmost to improve their tourism product.

Edward Gatt

Jul 15th 2010, 11:14

These are the people Austin Gatt has given huge thousands of pounds to for the service to be pivatised. These are the people who should have had the law thrown at them day after day- instead they were rewarded with bankloads of money for keeping this country hostage with their bullying tactics. I should think the next step is to give taxi driver thousands of euros to get on their bikes. No government, in recent history has been as misguided nd thoughtless as this.

RMangion

Jul 15th 2010, 11:09

I had similar occasions, when I used to catch the university bus to my hometown. I was the only person to drop off in my locality and because I asked him to continue the proper route and drop me off in this locality instead of the next one ( so as he could finish earlier) he started swearing and shouting etc....

j abela

Jul 15th 2010, 11:08

and then the government goes to pay them millions of euros for their old rusty polluting trucks!!!

Joe Borg

Jul 15th 2010, 11:08

Is this a normal procedure by 112 suppose that is Emergency Number???

We're livining in 2010!!!!!!!!!

mary Pace

Jul 15th 2010, 11:06

I sympathise with Mrs Cuesta,
to-day as I was going to valletta,on those horrible bus,that have no windows( it's like you'r in a oven!) I was sitting at the front holding to the front seat, as we where going at marsa, near the traffic lights, the driver was driving very fast & he had to brake or hit the car in front, as the lights were REd, so as he stopped , I fell straight ahead, & hurt my back, & legs, as I told off the driver, instead he say he was sorry, he told me, MY FAULT I FELL, because I stood up, from my seat, I told him, either he was drunk or mad!! because it's his fault, why should I stand up, when I was going to valletta!!
the only snag, I didn't have his bus number, but I was more concerned about my back & legs at the time.
They should teach some drivers not all, some manners

frank grech

Jul 15th 2010, 11:05

This has been going on for far too long, serious, drastic action need to be taken NOW! it is useless to spend millions of euro to advertise Malta and then have some one like this bus driver ruining it all for everybody.The PTA and the minister concerned know who these people are( I am sure they are in their minority). How about putting some plain clothes policemen on buses whose drivers are notorious for their attitude towards passengers? We must not be afraid to act.

m vella

Jul 15th 2010, 11:03

lock the driver up or put him in the middle of the desert for the rest of his life

PJ Mifsud

Jul 15th 2010, 11:03

Has the Transport Authority taken any disciplinary action against this hooligan driver? If not, no amount of kindness displayed by any PTA official will ensure that this disgraceful and despicable incident will not be repeated by the same person in future.

Although some commuters do not accept the small change due to them does not mean that this particular hooligan driver can get away with never bothering to give any due change at all.

Antonio Anastasi

Jul 15th 2010, 10:57

"When contacted, association chairman Victor Spiteri later clarified the association expected an investigation to be held before action was taken, adding they were “well aware of this driver’s attitude”.
If the PTA are well aware of this driver's attitude what is he still doing working as a PTA driver.
If he were a waiter, receptionist, manager, shop assitant, or anybody in the service industry for that matter he would have been out, fired, at least at the second offence if not the first.

Daniel Gordon

Jul 15th 2010, 10:54

And in my opinion the photo should have been of the driver and not of the victim.

Albert Farrugia

Jul 15th 2010, 10:53

Are we a nation of whimps?? Seems like the Maltese accept to be short-changed, in their faces, without even letting out a whimper!!!

Joanne Micallef

Jul 15th 2010, 10:51

When contacted, association chairman Victor Spiteri later clarified the association expected an investigation to be held before action was taken, adding they were “well aware of this driver’s attitude”.

If they were well aware of this driver's attitude why was he still allowed on the job????

M.Caruana

Jul 15th 2010, 10:45

“We were very scared and I called 112 from my mobile phone. They gave me the number of the Valletta police station and told me to speak to the police at the Valletta bus terminus,” she said.

This attitude at 112 is disgusting. This was an emergency situation where the tourists could have got a bad beating, and all they get, instead of an emergency dispatch of a patrol police officer is the number of the vallette police station?

112 in Malta is a national disgrace. I had an occaison once when at ghadira bay to report a beach operator who has a floating amusment leisure park, floating in the middle of the bay, where his attendants were using the motor boat to come in and out of the sandy beach. When I complained to the owner he threatend me and said I was no police officer. When I phone 112 they wash their hands and told me that they had several reports about him and asked ME!!! to phone ALE and report him. Some protection! I and my young children could've got a beating while trying to contact ALE.
112, based on my personal experience is a joke.

colin stanley

Jul 15th 2010, 10:40

If the transport is privatised, are these hooligan drivers to remain, if so, it will be useless to privatise.we will not benefit anything, only maybe higher fares.

Malcolm Mifsud

Jul 15th 2010, 10:34

The PTA knows very well that some drivers do not give small change back, no beating about the bush, Mr Spiteri. If this is the same driver who usually operates the Zabbar route, than he owes me well over EUR80c in ungiven change. He knows how to tip himself unashamedly. And it is not the first time I e-mailed Transport Malta about this abuse, so they too know what's going on. Stop playing saints please.

Karl Abela

Jul 15th 2010, 10:24

We need to nail this cowboy down !!!

I work as hard as ever to get tourists to Malta and he blows it all away.