During a conference held yesterday at Ta ‘Pinu, the Minister for Gozo, Giovanna Debono, gave details of the second year of operation of the Ministry for Gozo. Minister Debono explained how the main task was reflected in the conclusion of the process of wide public consultation on the eco-Gozo vision that generated constructive dialogue through which they had prepared a plan of action regarding the implementation of eco-Gozo vision. ”Despite the work related to eco-Gozo, the Ministry for Gozo also continued working to address the socio-economic areas which affect all those living in or visiting the island of Gozo,” added Minister Debono.

Among the tasks accomplished during the last twelve months Minister Debono mentioned two projects that both have been launched by the Prime Minister, Lawrence Gonzi. One was the Santa Marta day centre for disabled adults in Gozo.The centre is also setting up a one-stop-shop to facilitate services in the field of disability from one place which is also a post-modern community centre. Another project was the official opening of the Institute for Tourism Studies carried out by co-financing of more than €1.8m from EU funds. Currently more than 70 students are attending part-time or full-time in the institute which aims to enhance the quality of tourism services to meet the demand of the tourism sector, which is a key generator of employment in the private sector in Gozo.

She continued to explain how the work in respect of the eco-Gozo resulted document formulated more than 800 proposals of which 80 were selected. These were published in 80 proposed action plans which were presented along with the budget in 2010 and served as the basis for an allocation of €25 million in respect of projects related to eco-Gozo vision over the next three years. Among the work already done in this context, the Minister mentioned initiatives related to educational field, agricultural, environmental and that of alternative energy. The Minister announced that they are to establish a committee between the Ministry for Gozo and the University of Malta to devise a plan to alter the Government Farm at Xewkija into a Center of Research, Development and Agricultural Innovation. A preliminary study to identify systems of renewable energy that can be used in Gozo while there were also discussions with foreign companies have shown an interest to invest in this sector in Gozo.

Two projects expected to address the soil erosion and storage of water are the plans of afforestation, the cleaning and rehabilitation of 30 natural dam water catchment areas, together with the possibility that water treated at the sewage treatment plant will be able to be used as water for agricultural purposes. Project preparatory work carried out is that of building a swimming pool and other sports facilities that will continue to improve the Gozo Sport’s complex which already included a new gym.

The tourism product in respect of the historic heritage of Gozo continued to be enhanced through restoration works on the fortifications of the Citadel and the preparation of a detailed masterplan on this unique historical site. Minister Debono included the design for the construction of the new centre for the Ggantija temples site and the restoration works onthe chapel of Saint Cecilia.

The Minister also gave details of the work of the various directorates within the Ministry for Gozo to coordinate work in areas such as education, health, agriculture, and infrastructure. She explained how this work resulted in positive results that have improved services in all areas. Reference was made to the construction of new the secondary school for boys, projects financed from EU funds especially the establishment of a new department of radiology and other services in the Gozo hospital and the construction and work on the Ta’ Pinu Road. Work is alson to start on extensive landscaping projects in the areas of Marsalforn, Xlendi and Zewwieqa area.

The Minister concluded by saying the projects that are planned for the third year of work will increase the commitment in respect of employment protection while also increasing opportunities and ideas for new work on the island of Gozo.

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