Archbishop Emeritus Joseph Mercieca, Franco Masini and the Magro Brothers were recently decorated with the Ġieħ Għawdex awards at Palazzo Palina, Ta' Ċenċ Hotel, Sannat.
Mgr Mercieca was honoured for his high level of intellect and leadership qualities during his bishopric. Franco Masini was awarded for his consistent and assiduous promotion of Gozo through the media, while the Magro Brothers were honoured for their efforts to promote agro-industry in Gozo.
The Ġieħ Għawdex award was established by the Circolo Gozitano in 2005 in memory of Archpriest Saver Cassar, who, after the defeat of the French forces, as the head of an autonomous government, ruled Gozo for 22 months.
Gozo Minister Giovanna Debono presented the awards on behalf of President George Abela who was unable to attend.
Bass Noel Galea, accompanied on the piano by Stephen Attard, participated.