As part of the Ministry for Gozo’s involvement in the ICER Project, it is carrying out an analysis of the existing rural tourism situation in Gozo.

This analysis will go to provide the basis for a set of recommendations to foster rural tourism in Gozo.

To this end, representatives from the tourism industry, tourism operators and representatives from the commercial sector and other socio-economic areas in Gozo, attended a consultation meeting, attended by the Minister for Gozo, Giovanna Debono, linked to the participation of the Ministry for Gozo in the ICERS project (Innovative Concept of Eco-Accomodation Approach in Rural Regions) financed by the Interreg IVC programme under the European Regional Development Fund.

The meeting provided stakeholders with an opportunity to give their output during workshops that were held during the event. The feedback collected was noted by the rapporteurs present and will be discussed further in the plenary session

This project aims to propose recommendations for the strengthening of regional policy on the development of rural tourism, in view of the policy of the European Union on the development of rural areas built on sustainability. The Minister for Gozo, who opened the conference, explained how the objectives of this project form part of the proposed plan of action for eco-Gozo and may also have relevance in shaping a future national policy on tourism, paying particular attention to Gozo.

The Minister for Gozo said, “this is why this consultative process is considered an important phase and can make a valuable contribution to the sustainable development of the Gozitan tourism sector in a regional context as well as national level.”

The Minister also said that “rural tourism in Gozo has a strong economic relevance to the island because in addition to offering job opportunities, it also helps in generating economic activity in other areas.”

The ICER project, which will cost around €1.8m, is being co-financed by INTERREG IVC Programme of the European Regional Development Fund and is expected to be concluded by the end of this year.

The Ministry for Gozo joined this project with entities and rural authorities from France, Slovenia, Spain, Finland, Hungary and Ireland.

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