The Minister for Transport and Infrastructure, Joe Mizzi, has ordered a preliminary inquiry into the incident leading to the loss of life of five French tourists off the coast of Gozo. This is being carried out in terms of the Merchant Shipping Act,

The Inquiry Officer appointed by the Minister in terms of section 313 of the Merchant Shipping Act is Captain Mario Grech, Master Mariner. Upon the conclusion of the Preliminary Inquiry the Inquiring Officer shall submit a report to the Minister.

Meanwhile, the Marine Safety Investigation Unit (MSIU) within Transport Malta, is also conducting a separate safety investigation in terms of the relevant national legislation with the objective of identifying causes and safety issues and where possible or necessary, make recommendations with the scope of improving safety.

Permalink: Minister orders inquiry into maritime incident off Gozo coast