Mario Loporto was elected chairman of the Gozo Tourism Association at the first meeting of the council after being voted as a representative of the self catering section of the association during its annual general meeting.

Mr Loporto, who has been involved in tourism for 30 years, began his career with Munro Philips & Co at one of the first hotels to be built in Bugibba. He has also worked with Fortel Group at Fortina Hotel, Tigné Court Hotel and Captain Morgan Cruises and spent eight years with the Zammit Tabona Group. He is currently a tourism consultant with Ta' Frenc Group in Gozo.

"I believe that after a lot of hard work the GTA is now a recognised body and my intentions are to carry on working to solve the problems faced in the tourism industry," Mr Loporto said while talking to The Sunday Times.

He explained that although seasonality and accessibility are the main problems faced by Gozo, Maltese visitors are also essential to Gozo's tourism industry. He said that currently the GTA and the Gozo Ministry are working together to solve the problems faced in the tourism sector in Gozo. The GTA has also held meetings with the Malta Tourism Authority. He referred also to the luggage trolley service recently stopped by Gozo Channel, and the need to construct a larger marina and a golf course in Gozo.

Mr Loporto added that although advertising is an essential element in the industry it is also very expensive to produce a truely effective campaign. However by giving tourists value for money and a trouble free holiday, Malta and Gozo could also be promoted by word of mouth.

"At the moment we are not providing what tourists expect. If tourism is to move forward it is obvious that any constituted body needs the GTA's help with any decision regarding Gozo tourism," he said.