The challenges faced by the people of Gozo, particularly within the tourism sector, were at the centre of discussions held between Leader of the Nationalist Party Alex Borg and the Gozo Tourism Association (GTA) as part of the PN’s pre-Budget 2026 consultations.

During the meeting, GTA officials presented their budget proposals, which were discussed in detail with the PN Leader.

Alex Borg recognised that the biggest obstacle for Gozitans remains the lack of adequate connectivity between the two islands, mainly due, Borg said, “to the Labour Government’s failure to invest in a proper fourth Gozo Channel vessel, choosing instead to spend thousands of euro every day to rent an outdated second-class ferry.”

Alex Borg stated that Gozitans deserve better. He emphasised that a new PN Government would ensure, through EU funds, that Gozo Channel has a modern fleet of vessels, including environmentally-friendly ones.

He also referred to the urgent need to improve port services, stressing that an appropriate study must determine whether the ports of Cirkewwa and Mgarr should be expanded or whether a third port should be developed.

On infrastructure, he said that Gozo is long overdue for the investment it merits, especially when it comes to roads that have never undergone maintenance and are now in a state of disrepair.

He reminded that the island’s main roads were built under Nationalist Governments and are still enjoyed today “thanks to the serious work carried out on them.”

The PN Leader also highlighted that the Labour Government has “reduced capital expenditure for Gozo by almost €5 million,” despite the clear need for a holistic plan that tackles the daily challenges faced by Gozitans and those who cross the channel for work or leisure.

During the meeting, Alex Borg was accompanied by Shadow Minister for Tourism Mario de Marco.

Photo: PN

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