Transport strike

Valletta businesses are counting the costs of the transport strike, which forced a number of people to steer clear of the capital as bus, mini-van and hearse drivers blocked the main arteries into the city. Some shop owners and managers decided to close down, arguing that custom was so low it was not even worth the electricity consumed to light up the outlet and run the air-conditioning system. Cafeterias were deserted and kiosk owners at City Gate felt the pinch too. Tourism also suffered, with tourists having to endure long waits at the airport for transfer to their hotels and cruise liner passengers having no option but to make their way to the capital on foot.