The new offices of RS2 in Xewkija, Gozo, were inaugurated on Friday evening by the Prime Minister Joseph Muscat.

The Minister for Gozo Dr Anton Refalo finalised the agreement with RS2 last May. The company provides global services in the systems management of credit cards and other allied services to commence operations. It has made an initial investment of 1 million Euros, as well as the creation of 100 new jobs in Gozo over the next two years.

The Prime Minister said that that Gozo is now becoming synonymous with investment, which is thanks to the efforts made by the Government. He added that the Government wants quality work for Gozo.

This coming Monday, 30 employees, who had until until now been travelling daily to the RS2 offices in Malta, will start their work in the new Gozo office.In his speech on Friday evening the Minister for Gozo, on behalf of the Gozitan community gave thanks to the investors, represented by the Chairman, Mr. Mario Schembri. He also thanked the Minister for Education and Employment, Evarist Bartolo, for making available the site for this new enterprise.

Dr Refalo said that it was a celebration of a new beginning for Gozo. “After long years of lack of investment we are happy to have changed that trend and we welcome the investment which RS2 has decided to engage in Gozo.”He added that this means not only the creation of new jobs but also shows a trust in the potential of the island. Dr Refalo said that he hoped it would be a “beacon for other investment ventures in the future.”

“In the seventies we saw the industrial estate flourish with light manufacturing activities. Forty years later, our aim is to transform Gozo into a niche for service oriented economic activities. RS2 is a first for Gozo offering a service of global financial cards management.”Dr Refalo explained that the Government has “optimistic plans for Gozo.” He added that, “some projects have started this year; others will materialise next year while still others are on the drawing board.”

The Minister mentioned the investment in services through Barts Medical School. “Our plans will follow this path of clean and high value added investment. Our aim is to maintain the beauty of the island and to do our utmost to bring back the youths we have lost over the years because of the lack of job opportunities.”

“We want to reverse the trend of an ageing population and rejuvenate Gozo with new economic activities which in turn will bring youth-related ancillary services,” said Dr Refalo.

“Today’s event clearly shows that our vision is doable and has started bearing fruit.”

Photographs: MGOZ/George Scerri

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