Association explains bus drivers' absence in court

The Public Transport Association said yesterday bus drivers charged with overcharging pensioners during industrial action had not turned up in court because the association had been waiting to discuss the charges with the Transport Ministry.

The association said that when the industrial action was withdrawn, Transport Minister Censu Galea had promised to discuss the charges. However, it was only informed by the minister on the day of the actual hearing that the charges would not be dropped.

"The drivers, many of whom were rostered to work that day, could not be advised to attend court," the association said.

Sources said earlier this week about 100 elderly people turned up in court to give evidence, in spite of the adverse weather conditions.

The drivers stand charged with making elderly people pay the full bus fare, ignoring the pass which entitles them to a discount.