During a meeting of the Malta Council for Economic & Social Development dedicated to the Gozo Regional Committee (GRC), seven influential stakeholders from Gozo represented by ‘Ghal Ghawdex,’ engaged in addressing important proposals that impact Gozo and its residents.

The ‘Ghal Ghawdex’ coalition is comprised of the island’s three prominent environmental NGOs, namely – Din l-Art Helwa Ghawdex, Wirt Ghawdex, and Ghawdix, together with the Gozo Business Chamber, the Gozo Tourism Association, all the 14 local councils in Gozo and the Gozo University Group.

Joining the social partners at MCESD were the Minister for Gozo Clint Camilleri, the Minister for Public Works and Planning, Stefan Zrinzo Azzopardi, and the Parliamentary Secretary for Social Dialogue, Andy Ellul.

A highlight of the meeting was a comprehensive presentation by Mr. Godfrey Swain, representing ‘Ghal Ghawdex,’ which emphasised the urgency to safeguard Gozo from overdevelopment and protect its unique heritage and environment with clear proposals.

The presentation underlined the concerns surrounding Gozo’s potential transformation that may erode its unique charm and appeal.

Nonetheless, MCESD said that through collaborative efforts, the seven entities reached a consensus on key issues, resulting in the formulation of an eight-point proposal plan which offers a clear roadmap to address the challenges faced by Gozo’s built and natural environments through direct action and call for action to ensure the region’s specific character and quality to preserve Gozo’s identity and value. Moreover, it strives to envision traditional industries, commerce, and a thriving tourism sector of quality.

The contributions of the MCESD social partners provided tangible reactions and support through their expertise and experience and rallied behind the Gozo Regional Committee’s and Ghal Ghawdex “unwavering commitment to Gozo’s and its residents’ ambitions,”” the MCESD said

Recognising that Gozo is an integral part of the Maltese islands and a prime tourist destination, the discussions underlined the significance of a prosperous Gozo in the interest of the overall national economy.

Ministers Zrinzo Azzopardi, Camilleri, and Ellul provided updates on the government’s actions on matters raised and expressed gratitude and appreciation for the Gozo Regional Committee’s dedication to being proactive with proposals for Gozo that benefit all its residents.

Minister Clint Camilleri stated that this year a plan of proposals will be presented which will also be discussed with the unions and those involved in the construction and property sector.

He went on to say that, “the Ministry welcomes the initiatives and proposals and is open to discussion because it believes in active participation in order to continue creating balance and sustainable development on the island of Gozo.”

Minister Stefan Zrinzo Azzopardi expressed his satisfaction for the participation of various Gozitan organisations and for proposals that were presented.

“The planning in Gozo should be discussed in a structured way in order to carry out a collective economic study that leads to wise decisions whose fruits we will see in the coming years,” said the Minister.

He concluded by saying that this meeting will serve as a good start for a broad discussion on a sustainable development strategy that will meet the aspirations of the island of Gozo.

The presentation which offered valuable insights can be accessed by clicking here.

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