The recent transport strike showed in no uncertain terms how important it is for an inter-island air service.

This service has been dead ever since the Spanish company wrapped up its operations in October of 2006.

If only a serious air service was in operation between Gozo and Malta International Airport a lot of hassle and hardship would have been avoided during the strike.

Gozo Minister Giovanna Debono, when answering a parliamentary question by Anton Refalo (MLP) about the air service between the islands, said there were a number of companies interested in operating a helicopter service and that talks had been held with each.

We have been hearing about this for a long time now, which makes this statement rather surprising.

I am sure that the minister is fully aware that a helicopter service is past its use-by date now. I wish to know what the GTA and the Gozo Business Chamber have to say about this statement and whether any progress has been registered.

A Gozo air link presentation made recently by Roy Perry at a leading Gozo hotel gave one and all present a detailed account of the enormous benefits that a serious air service would give to Gozo island.

For further information, those interested can go to http://gozoairlink.blogspot.com .