Transport Malta’s incoming CEO, James Piscopo, believes that his experience as chief executive of the Labour Party will influence his performance “in the positive sense”.

“I was deeply involved in the preparation of the PL’s electoral manifesto, which is now the Government’s programme of action. This process has given me a strong insight into the Government’s plans and ideas and will undoubtedly help me in executing government policy at Transport Malta,” Mr Piscopo said.

He said that when he would assume his new role, which will be formally announced soon, he would make the public transport system a priority. “This will be a hands-on, public friendly authority,” he said. On Thursday, Mr Piscopo, who formerly worked at Air Malta, announced his resignation as Labour’s CEO, a role for which he was handpicked. This gave rise to speculation that he was destined to become Transport Malta’s new chief executive.

Speaking during a press conference yesterday, Transport Minister Joe Mizzi confirmed that, on the advice of Prime Minister Joseph Muscat, he agreed that Mr Piscopo be appointed CEO. Mr Piscopo will replace Stanley Portelli who has handed in his resignation.

Mr Mizzi described Mr Piscopo as a “competent man” who would improve the public transport system and be an asset to Transport Malta.

Mr Piscopo said: “We have a strong will to tackle this head-on as I believe it is fundamental for a modern country like ours to have a smooth-running, socially-acceptable system.

“There are other priorities such as upcoming infrastructural projects, particularly works on December 13 Road.

“I will also give due priority to the way Transport Malta communicates with the public. We will adopt a proactive communications approach and not a reactive one,” he said.

Mr Piscopo declared that he did not have business interests in any companies and his relationship with Air Malta ended when he accepted a voluntary redundancy scheme in 2008.