Calabria advances public transport reform through new AMCAL agency

The Calabria regional council is advancing a reform of the local public transport system, which includes the suppression of the current Regional Transport Authority (ART-CAL) and the establishment of a new agency, AMCAL (Agenzia della Mobilità della Calabria).

Political debate surrounding the reform is intense. Opposition members, including the Democratic Party, have criticized the administration's method, alleging a lack of genuine consultation with local mayors and municipalities. Critics argue that the transition from a public authority to a joint-stock company (S.p.A.) raises concerns regarding governance, costs, and financial responsibilities for local entities.

Labor unions, such as USB Lavoro Privato, have noted that while political factions argue over the specifics of the bidding processes and the timing of the new agency's operations, there is little consensus on whether the competitive market model itself is the most effective way to manage public transport services.