Update with comments by the Minister for Gozo – Finance Minister Prof. Edward Scicluna, has this evening presented Budget 2020 in the House of Representatives.

Some of the highlights of the Budget – Growing Together – announced for Gozo and of general interest, are shown below, and may be updated:

Update: The Ministry for Gozo has an increase of 19% in financial allocation compared to last year. “It means that during this legislature the Ministry budget has increased by about 60%,” said Minister for Gozo Justyne Caruana.

Dr Caruana also said that a tender has been issued in the past few days for the remaining work on the new Health Centre in Victoria.

She went on to mention that there will be the project for a Park and Ride near the Xhajma Racetrack.

Budget measures:

Finance Minister says proportionally, Gozo’s economic growth was larger than that of Malta.

Prof Scicluna has advised that on the Gozo Tunnel, various studies will be completed over the next few months.

He also said that it is expected that preliminary designs will soon be published on the environment, social and economic impact of the tunnel.

A pre-qualification questionnaire for the project to be issued for interested companies.

Fourth Gozo Channel ferry proves to be a success for Gozo, the Minister says, with tendering process to be launched soon for fourth ferry. Work to implement a fast ferry service to continue.

The second fibre optic cable will be completed for Gozo.

Marsalforn and Xlendi bays are being embellished.

Large investment in Gozo roads infrastructure, the Minister said, with work on Victoria-Mgarr Road and Victoria-Marsalforn.

Government to offer incentives for further private investment in Gozo, with the Gozo Business Scheme.

The Minister also said that companies interested in relocating to Gozo will be offered fiscal incentives.

New sustainable, travelling alternatives, which will include ferries, to be offered by the Government. Waiting areas for ferries are to see some improvements, with the provision of shelter and shade for passengers.

Existing housing schemes, including for buying property in Gozo, will continue for a further year.

Gozo Film Fund introduced for next year.

A €300 grant will be paid to those over 75-years of age and living at home. Anyone over 80 will receive €350. The elderly who are in private – paid residential homes will also receive the grant.

€7 weekly increase for pensioners inclusive of COLA.

Pensioners will not pay tax on the first €13,798. Those couples with only a single pension will not pay tax on the first €15,798.

Cost of living adjustment at €3.49 per week, included for pensioners and those on social benefits. Student stipends will increase pro-rata.

People over 75 will be eligible for free transport.

Malta will be banning single-use plastic, and from 2021 plastic bags, cutlery, straws and plates for import and production will be banned.

There will be, as from next year, a €10,000 limit in cash towards the purchase of property, cars, boats, precious stones and art objects.

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