MLP calls for tourism plan

Millions of liri in investment and many jobs are under threat, MLP spokesman for tourism Evarist Bartolo said yesterday, highlighting the need for new measures so that Malta's tourism industry will become competitive.

In a statement, Mr Bartolo underlined the need for a serious plan on competitive pricing and quality.

"If we continue to spend millions on advertising, branding, subsidies for airlines and tour operators, we are only going to be lengthening slightly the languid life of tourism, without giving it the new injection it needs," he said.

Mr Bartolo called for a serious plan by the government, the private sector, the unions and the whole country together, to renew Malta's tourism and improve its product and service offering.

A number of three- and four-star hotels have decided to close for the coming winter to reduce their big losses during the shoulder months, Dr Bartolo pointed out, adding that the crisis that was hitting the tourism industry was affecting hoteliers, restaurateurs and other companies connected to tourism, from transport to commerce and entertainment.