4 comments so far.GTA reiterates is stand for “urgent development” of Gozo airlink
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The Gozo Tourism Association, in a statement on Saturday, reiterated its stand for the “urgent development of an airlink between MIA and Gozo.”
The GTA was reacting to comments made yesterday by MEP Dr Alfred Sant, when he criticised the development of an airfield on Gozo, describing it as “not commercially viable.”
Dr Sant had also said yesterday that he was “amazed how the plan for an airport in Gozo found the support of so many Gozitan businessmen.”
The Association insisted that “investment in connectivity infrastructure reduces double insularity, both physical and economical. The absence of such a link is justice delayed with the connectivity between Malta and Gozo and with the Gozitan socio-economic growth.”
The Association said that “some of our politicians have to understand that the sea and air links are the roads that connect the two islands of Malta and Gozo.”
It also asked that “with the same argument, was it an absurd idea that along the years the much-needed improvement on the roads network on the Maltese Islands was carried out with millions upon millions being invested in numerous road projects?”
The GTA went on to say that “in this regard which road on the Maltese islands is commercially and financially viable. All roads in the Maltese islands needed the capital outlay to build and now require funds for their ongoing maintenance, without charging any tolls from the users.”
The same applies to the sea and air links between Malta and Gozo. That is why the present ferry service between Mgarr and Cirkewwa is supported by a public service obligation contract (PSO), the GTA said.
It added, “that is why the Government is presently discussing with the EU a similar public service obligation contract to cover the fast ferry service between Mgarr and Valletta.”
The Gozo Tourism Association said that it fully supports the Ministry for Gozo initiative to develop the rural airfield on Gozo. “The Gozitan touristic sector and the inhabitants of Gozo have been deprived of an airlink for almost two decades now.”
It concluded by saying that, “this prime industry on Gozo and the Gozitans deserves much better.”
I would give it as a referendum to the gozitan people. Why not involve the Maltese people? Because most Maltese people will not be interested unless they can bring their car with them. I know there are Gozitans for and against the idea
I have already commented that this project is “A Complete Failure” for all concerned. A feasibility study report has never been published for the citizens to see and value.
The financial aspects are always missing from any report. I would like to know how many prospective tourists or travellers will be expected to cross and use this service for this project to be viable, profit wise.
Who will be the financial clout debtor for any financial fiasco?
What about the noise factor for the people living in these areas of Ghajnsielem & Xewkija?
Why haven’t the Gozitans been consulted in general on this stupidity of the “Project” but only hear and see the comments from the Business Sectors.
If the project is judged to be financially unviable, it simply won’t happen. If it goes ahead and fails, then lessons will have been learned. On the other hand, if it is successful, then what’s the problem? If Gozo wants to attract ‘quality’ tourism, then an air link with Malta airport is essential. With regards to noise, Gozo is probably one of the noisiest islands on earth relative to its size!
I support the development of the Gozo airport. Alfred Sant if it was for him we are still out of the European Union.