The Gozo Business Chamber, in a statement on Thursday, said that while it believes in the need for a “broader discussion on constitutional changes, and a more effective parliamentary system, which strengthens the national governance scenario,” it does “not agree with the proposal contained in the document ‘Electoral Reform: A New Approach to Malta’s Elections’ in which it is being proposed that the Gozo district be extended to include both Mellieha and Mgarr.”

The Malta Chamber has proposed a reduction in MPs to 45 from 79 as well as electoral districts from 13 to 5, which the Chamber said, would provide a greater chance for a third party to be represented in Parliament.

The Gozo Business Chamber said that it has noted the two documents issued today by the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry and its proposals to ensure a more effective parliamentary system and a fairer representation.

However, “in the case of Gozo this is not simply a question of numbers, but what such a move would represent. Article 61 of the Maltese Constitution had in fact tried to preclude such a move, which would effectively fragment the integrity of Gozo,” the GBC said.

It went on to say that “as the discussion about the regional status of Gozo has again gained momentum such a proposal shows lack of sensitivity towards a region which throughout the years has shown its distinctiveness, and for which a distinct policy approach has time and again proved necessary.”

“Having its own Members of Parliament which speak specifically for Gozo is one of the most important gains for Gozo in Malta’s recent history as an independent nation. The work of these MPs has been crucial along the years for Gozo’s needs to be addressed,” the Gozo Chamber said.

“This is not enough,” the Chamber said, and reiterated that “the time is ripe for a transparent and honest discussion, and a long-term commitment towards Gozo’s status as a region.”

“This is why the Chamber feels that the proposal of grouping Gozo with other localities goes against the notion of regionality, dismantling one of the gains in terms of governance that Gozo has achieved along the years,” the Chamber stated.

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