Gozo Tourism Association Chairman Mr Paul Scicluna, has said that the touristic sector feels that “the over-development in Gozo is killing the goose that laid the golden egg.”

Mr Scicluna was speaking at the GTA Annual General Meeting on Friday, held at the Queen Mary University of London, Gozo Campus

He highlighted the fact that the recovery of tourism has also been registered in Gozo, with increases coming both from both the foreign and domestic markets.

The GTA Chairman stated that although 2023 tourism in Gozo is expected to reach and even exceed the pre-pandemic arrivals, the sector still faces challenges that need to be addressed.

Furthermore Mr Scicluna also stressed the need to maintain the authenticity of the Gozitan touristic product, especially through a trained and skilled labour force.

The GTA’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr Joe Muscat then delivered an audio-visual presentation on the performance of the Association during 2022.

He gave an overview of the Gozitan touristic performance during last year, as well as the work and initiatives undertaken by the Association during the course of the past year 2022.

The AGM was also addressed by the Opposition Spokesperson Dr. Chris Said, who whilst thanking GTA for its attainments, explained several tourism related issued including the touristic product, human resources, connectivity and more support to the Gozitan constituted bodies.

In his address the Minister for Tourism Clayton Barotlo referred to the increases of the tourist arrivals both foreign and domestic to Gozo.

He also stressed that Gozo can be a destination that can excel in tourism niches like, wellness, faith and sports tourism. Minister Bartolo also stated that connectivity to Malta remains a priority to the tourism industry and this will continue to increase during this year.

The Annual General Meeting came to an end with the address of the Minister for Gozo Clint Camilleri who also mentioned the initiatives his Ministry is taking to sustain this important sector for Gozo.

Minister Camilleri referred to the “jam-packed cultural calendar” as well as the infrastructural works that are in progress and the development of the airfield in Gozo, which, he said, “will enhance the Gozitan touristic offer.”

Also present for the AGM: MTA Chairman Dr. Gavin Gulia, MTA CEO Mr. Carlo Micallef, the Permanent Secretary at MGOZ Mr. John Borg, officials from the MTA Gozo Office, other distinguished guests and GTA members.

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