AD discuss economic situation in Gozo

Alternattiva Demokratika - the Green Party met the Union Haddiema Maghqudin section in Gozo to discuss the current economic situation in Gozo.

AD Gozo Regional Committee spokesman Victor Galea said: "Alternattiva Demokratika, through the AD Gozo Regional Committee, is currently working on a comprehensive plan for Gozo, which will be published in the coming months, after an extensive consultation exercise with Gozitan civil society and constituted bodies. Today's meeting is one of a series we will be holding in the coming months."

The Green Party spokesman on economy, finances and tourism, Edward Fenech, said: "Together with the UHM representative in Gozo we discussed the difficulties of Gozitans working in Malta regarding transport and also lack of job opportunities in Gozo, especially after the downsizing of a major textile manufacturer."

He added that the party's proposals for job creation in Gozo and ways to improve transport between islands, keeping in mind the double isolation Gozo suffers, were also discussed.

AD chairman Harry Vassallo explained that the Green Party believes that tourism is Gozo's biggest revenue earner. He said the island's uniqueness is a major attraction to many Maltese as well as to several thousand tourists and the Gozo tourism sector should promote Gozo as a niche product.

"If the island continues competing on the tour operator model it will lose not just to most foreign competition but also to Malta.

"The island has the potential to develop as an information processing and 'back-office' hub. It can attract an international client base and strengthen this sector. This service sector can provide jobs to hundreds, potentially thousands of Gozitans," he said.

Dr Vassallo concluded that in Gozo the need for change is strongly felt and one of the most pressing needs is for authorities and organisations to listen to the needs of Gozitan families. "Gozo needs more accountability in public administration," he said.

"AD will soon present a regional plan for Gozo based on Green values. These proposals will be aimed at ensuring that Gozitans and foreign residents living in Gozo will benefit from Gozo's great potential for sustainable economic development."

All Gozitans are invited to contribute to the formulation of AD's regional plan for Gozo by sending their comments either via e-mail to gozo@alternattiva.org.mt or by writing to: Alternattiva Demokratika Ghawdex, PO Box 6, Victoria.