A number of bus drivers are holding talks with the two main unions to discuss the possibility of becoming members once the transport reform is implemented, The Sunday Times has learnt.

Both the General Workers’ Union and Union Ħaddiema Magħqudin are in discussions with the 400 bus drivers who will no longer remain self-employed once the private operator takes over the service.

UĦM general secretary Gejtu Vella confirmed that a meeting with a small group of bus drivers had already taken place and another information meeting will be held in the next weeks.

“We are a general union and represent employees in many different sectors. After public transport reform, it is only natural bus drivers would want to join a union,” he said.

For several years bus drivers were represented by the Association of Public Transport.

“The association was there for the self-employed – now the bus drivers will be employed by the new operator and form part of the private sector,” Mr Vella said.

GWU general secretary Tony Zarb said the union was in discussions with a number of bus drivers.

This transition would bring about a new set of working conditions for the drivers. A total of 405 bus drivers – 215 owners/drivers, 10 owners and 180 employed drivers – agreed to work with the new operator. The government is currently in discussions with the preferred bidder, Arriva.

The reform includes training for the bus drivers, who, among other things, will have to be ­fluent in Maltese and have a basic understanding of spoken English.

They must also receive regular training on how to interact with tourists, children, senior citizens and people with a disability. They must also know how to administer first aid and how to act in an emergency, as well as being informed about gender issues and how to prevent harassment.

Bus drivers will be required to be smartly presented at all times. Tattoos and piercings must be hidden and they cannot wear flip-flops or sandals. Jewellery must be simple and kept to a minimum and no heavy chains, bracelets or rings are allowed.

The drivers cannot drive for more than nine hours daily – or they can drive up to 10 hours a day twice a week. They will not be permitted to drive for more than 56 hours a week and not more than 90 hours in a fortnight.