Two former transport ministers in the Nationalist government have argued that the big-bang approach to bus reform in 2010 was a mistake.

Jesmond Mugliett and Ċensu Galea, who between them spent 10 years in charge of transport, both feel the changes made when Arriva took over were too drastic, pointing especially to the way the route network was overhauled, making journeys longer.

Before the ill-fated reform in July 2011, the criticism had actually been that successive administrations were treading too carefully and lacked the political courage to grab the bull by the horns.

Mr Mugliett said the introduction of Arriva brought about a radical change, particularly in the routes, which was never explained or justified.

He also said a long-term vision was needed for the gradual introduction of modern modes of mass transport such as monorail systems.

Mr Galea said the PN government had paid the price for trying to change too much at one go through a “big-bang” approach.

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