Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi held a discussion on the quality of life in Gozo at the exhibition hall of the Ministry for Gozo on May 16.

Young lawyer Joseph Grech explained how Government investment together with EU funds had helped to improve the infrastructure and the economy in Gozo.

Accessibility to Gozo has improved considerably while the ongoing road projects, artificial dive sites and the new ITS in Qala will contribute towards Gozo's tourism industry. There has also been a substantial amount of progress in education, environment and agriculture.

Suggestions from the floor related to education, health services, taxation, employment, tourism and business. Increase in allowances for Gozitan students studying in Malta, the possible opening of a call centre and transfer of more back office work to Gozo, together with tax rebates for those investing in Gozo were raised.

Notwithstanding the increase of those registering for employment, an entrepreneur complained that there is a mismatch between job availability and those ready to work in certain areas. Excessive bureaucracy was also reproved, while positive discrimination to attract more investment to Gozo was encouraged. The Gozo Tourism Authority proposed the setting up of an agency that would promote the Gozitan tourism, industry and craft sectors, while stressing that Gozitan representation on the Malta Council for Economic and Social Development is essential.

Immediate action should be taken on berthing facilities for cruise liners. The Gozo Business Chamber voiced its concern about present transportation of merchandise to Gozo and praised current infrastructure activity while emphasising the need of an adequate airstrip and a new yacht marina.

Dr Gonzi said Government intended to keep on giving the education and health sectors due importance, with an effective social policy. Gozitan students will soon be offered the opportunity to continue their studies abroad through scholarships, which will be announced shortly. Government supports positive discrimination to help economic development on Gozo, which will also benefit from its 10 per cent share of the funds allocated to Malta by the EU.