Gozo airstrip

It is, I guess, human nature to assume that when things are going wrong, one idea, in "one fell swoop", will fix all. But unfortunately, it is these rash and ill-thought out plans that many times end up haunting us later by causing more ill than good.

The Gozo airstrip is once again on the table, put forward by a few select groups and individuals - some of whom, unfortunately, tend to speak as if they have some preordained right to represent all Gozitans. Others (even more unfortunately) harken back to medieval times and would, given the power, have built the airstrip the day before tomorrow.

But (fortunately) we do live in a democracy, and as the Prime Minister rightly pointed out, all sides need to be heard. There may surely be a few who will benefit from the airstrip, and even more surely there will be a handful that will benefit greatly. But should we not be looking for the greater good of society as a whole? And thus we have to ask ourselves some important questions:

1. Will the average Gozitan (and Maltese) benefit from the airstrip?

2. Whom do we plan to attract by building an airstrip?

3. Would a tourist prefer a pleasant ferry ride, while seeing up close some of the natural beauty our islands have to offer, or a cramped 15-minute plane ride?

4. What are the effects of building an airstrip on those in the vicinity (the people of Xewkija and Ghajnsielem)?

5. Do tourists come here to see our technological prowess or else to relax in a friendly atmosphere with friendly people and a welcoming environment?

6. How will property/land owners and farmers in the vicinity be affected?

7. What effects on pollution (noise and air) will there be (not to mention the aesthetics of an airstrip)?

So yes, I am one of those Gozitans the prime minister should listen to, and like me, I am sure there are many more. I am not one to believe that there is any quick fix to our current problems, nor am I one to think that they are insurmountable.

In my opinion, the airstrip is a project that will be run by the few, ridden by the few and benefit the fewer.