The Gozo NGOs Association that represents the volunteering sector in the Gozitan Islands, welcomes the announced plans for investment by the Government to improve the accessibility between Gozo and Malta, with four passenger ferries and one cargo ferry by 2029.

In a statement, the Association said that this crucial investment allows for the “smooth continuation of the present robust economic growth of the Gozitan Islands and the ever-growing demand in passenger and cargo between the islands.”

Proposals by the Gozo NGOs Association are found in the publication of Dr Raymond C. Xerri, Quintessential Gozo 2025 – 100 Proposals for the Gozitan islands, which were adopted unanimously last November and were presented as proposals for the Budget at the Gozo Regional Committee (GRC) and to the Malta Council for Economic and Social Development (MCESD).

The Association explained that these proposals are intended to reflect two fundamental aspects:- (1) the importance to develop the necessary new infrastructure related to and compliment the proposed ferries and (2) the importance that Gozitans are treated equal to Maltese also in the area of transport.

It noted that the proposals are found in Chapter – II. Integrated Infrastructure and Transport where essential proposals are listed such as the Malta-Gozo Monorail-Subway System, Gozo Airport and a Vertiport. A Gozitan Pass should be introduced, free of charge for Gozitans and provide access to the entire transport system nationwide; the Port of Mgarr should be doubled from its present size to cater for five main sectors crucial for the continued sustainable economic growth of the Gozitan Island which should also include a Helipad.

The Gozo NGOs Association went on to say that it welcomes the fact that “the Government saw our proposals made last November which proposed the building of four new Eco-friendly ferries.”

Furthermore, The Association said that it believes there should be an Express and Local Fast Ferry Service, the Express Service will be direct from the Port of Mgarr to the Grand Harbour in Valletta and a local service which route is:- the Port of Mgarr, St Paul’s Bay, Sliema, the Grand Harbour and Marsaskala

It stressed that “all the above transport services for Gozitans should be provided free of charge. If this shift in policy is not implemented, Gozitans and whoever lives on the Gozitan Islands will continue to face a disadvantage in terms of extra costs both for passengers and businesses.”

The Gozo NGOs Association pointed out that “Maltese people and Maltese businesses do not pay such costs to travel within the mainland, why should Gozitans pay to go to Malta? The Association brings this worrying fact to the attention of the Government and is of fundamental importance that there should be nothing disadvantages the freedom of movement of Gozitans persons and Gozitan businesses within our country since we are one country and in the European Union.”

The Association stressed that along with these plans a new arterial road should be constructed around Fort Chambray Peninsula to Ghajnsielem joining to Victoria. Mgarr Road, Ghajnsielem towards Xewkija should be one-way towards Victoria in order to reduce substantially the high rate of road accidents it has.

The Gozo NGOs Association concluded by saying that “these roads should be connected with a bypass around Victoria for vehicles who do not need to drive through the heart of the Gozitan capital. These new roads should provide an alternative route and another option for drivers which will reduce traffic congestion and the high emissions along Republic Street. Besides, the public should also be provided with an Eco and healthier alternative, separate lanes for shared bike, scooter and walking.”

For further information or a copy of the Association’s proposals please contact 99427633.

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