Prime Minister Robert Abela has started a series of consultations with social partners from Gozo ahead of the Budget 2027 launch, holding the first meeting with members of the Regional Committee for Gozo.

The meeting focused on Gozo’s future, the economic opportunities emerging on the island, the realities accompanying development, and the need for such development to proceed in a balanced and, above all, sustainable manner.

Prime Minister Abela emphasised the Government’s commitment to implementing measures that place the individual’s quality of life at the heart of decision-making.

It was explained that the priorities discussed included connectivity between Malta and Gozo, with an emphasis on ensuring increasingly efficient, accessible, and reliable services for Gozitan workers, students, families, and businesses.

In this context, the Prime Minister referred to the call for tenders for the lease of a fourth vessel – for which two companies have shown interest – as well as the ongoing strengthening of the fast ferry service, which is expected to reach a total of nearly two million passengers by the end of this year.

Dr Abela emphasised that investment in public infrastructure and urban regeneration will remain at the forefront of the agenda, with further improvements to roads, public spaces, and village centres, alongside increased investment in safety, accessibility, and the quality of the urban environment.

The Prime Minister added that this same vision extends to sports, culture, and recreational facilities, providing more quality spaces and opportunities for young people, families, and the entire community.

Members of the Regional Committee for Gozo presented the Government with a series of proposals based on five key pillars: accessibility and connectivity; health; economic diversification; education and human capital; and energy, the environment, and climate change.

During the meeting, it was noted that Gozo has continued to record significant positive socio-economic development in recent years, characterised by ever-growing economic activity, new opportunities, and strengthening business confidence. Tourism remains a key pillar of the Gozitan economy, while interest in investment and the creation of new jobs is also on the rise.

Emphasis was also placed on the need for the Gozitan economy to continue diversifying and attracting quality investment that fosters sustainable jobs and new opportunities, particularly for young people.

Ministers Anton Refalo, Silvio Schembri, Clint Camilleri, Clyde Caruana, and Jo Etienne Abela were present at the meeting, alongside the Head of the Office of the Prime Minister’s Secretariat, Mark Mallia.

File photo GRDA

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