MEP Roberta Metsola on Tuesday made the case for increased EU funding for Gozo as she addressed the European Parliament on the future EU Budget.

She called for flexibility and specific solutions for islands and regions where growth had been slower than at the national level.

Europe, she said, was criticised for being “too bureaucratic and too rigid” so it is important to illustrate what EU funds did for people every day.

“We have to make sure no citizens are left behind - I am referring specifically to islands like Gozo where economic growth has not matched Malta’s. These cannot be ignored when it comes to EU funds. We must find a way forward”.

Read: Malta set to lose almost €200m in EU funding under Commission's proposals

Dr Metsola said EU funding could help boost Gozo economy. The EU was obliged to report on the disparities between Gozo and Malta and to take these into consideration in budget allocations. This meant that Gozo could remain eligible for funding, irrespective of the situation in Malta. However, the government had to pressure on European authorities.

“We are doing our bit from the European Parliament, but with EU budget negotiations under way, it is time for the government to put Gozo front and centre. Do not leave Gozo behind,” she said.

During the debate with Budget Commissioner Günther Oettinger, Dr Metsola spoke about the need to increase funding for the EU’s programme Erasmus. She welcomed the proposed increase for the programme but said it was still not enough.

She welcomed the tripling of the EU Budget for migration purposes and said this would help in the better management of borders.