Gozitan organisations expressed scepticism during an online discussion held yesterday about the supposed benefits that a proposed car-tunnel between the two islands would bring to the Gozitan community at large.

The discussion found that most “were not convinced” that a tunnel would truly facilitate mobility and accessibility between the two islands.

The Gozitan speakers were mainly worried that a car-tunnel would “exacerbate traffic congestion and fail to bring about a significant reduction in the commuting times, rather than providing a seamless connection between Malta and Gozo.”

The majority of panelists were also unconvinced as to how a car-tunnel between the two islands would address the many social and economic challenges faced by Gozitan society.

Several speakers also pointed out the fact that the “total lack of studies and information” about the proposed tunnel makes it difficult for the public to form an informed opinion as to whether it is indeed the best solution to mobility challenges.”

They also called for the need of independent, holistic and transparent studies which would consider and compare all possible transport solutions.

The panelists included:

Daniel Cilia, renowned Gozitan photographer and lifelong active member of a number NGOs

Sean Zammit, President of the Association for Gozitan Employees in Malta (AGEM)

Mark Farrugia, President of the Gozo University Group (GUG)

Joe Muscat, CEO of the Gozo Tourism Association (GTA)

Joseph Borg, President of the Gozo Business Chamber (GBC)

Samuel Azzopardi, President of the Gozo Regional Council

Alex Torpiano, President of Din l-Art Helwa

Ronald Camilleri, accountant with an MSc in Environmental Planning and Management and former member of the Interdiocesan Environment Commission

Rachel Radmilli, anthropologist, and lecturer at the University of Malta.

The debate was streamed on Moviment Graffitti’s Facebook Page and was organised in collaboration with Malta Today and a number of NGOs namely, Din l-Art Helwa, Flimkien ghal Ambjent Ahjar, The Archaeological Society Malta, Friends of the Earth Malta and BirdLife Malta.

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