A number of operators who are involved in the tourism sector in Gozo, primarily from food establishments and hotels and guesthouses, attended an informative seminar which was organised in order to define and give more information about the subsidy scheme related to the interest on loans which are affected by projects involved with refurbishment and extensions in the tourist industry.

This scheme was launched with a view to strengthening the competitiveness of the sector while encouraging private investment increased by a subsidy related to the work of restructuring, or new extensions that are to be added to existing establishments. This seminar took place in the exhibition hall of the Ministry for Gozo, and was organised by they Tourism and Sustainable Development section within the Office of the Prime Minister, with the assistance of the Ministry for Gozo.

During the introduction, Giovanna Debono, Minister for Gozo, explained how tourism depends both on infrastructure projects and private investment, through which the service offered to tourists complements the Government’s work in the aid sector. She also listed a number of projects undertaken over previous years to improve tourism in Gozo. The Minister explained how a number of projects that are currently underway will continue to improve the infrastructure in Gozo and which will also benefit the tourism sector. She urged those present to take part in the various schemes offered from time to time as ultimately it will be beneficial for the Gozitan tourism sector.

Mario Demarco, Parliamentary Secretary for Tourism, explained the main objective of this scheme which is aimed especially towards the tourist establishments to enable them to give value for money. A number of other initiatives are being pursued by the Government to aid the tourism sector in particular circumstances. Among these initiatives is the Sustainable Tourism Projects scheme where the Government has allocated €10 million from the Programme of Structural Funds for Malta 2007-2013. Dr Demarco said that another call for applications under the scheme will be launched in the coming months.

Ms Nadine Mifsud from the Tourism and Sustainable Development section within the Office of the Prime Minister explained in detail the process involved in the application and the evaluation of requests for assistance and also listed a number of criteria which would give and advantage to those who are applying. Including those related to the type of project as well as the category of the establishment involved and permits required by the authorities concerned.

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