Eco vision characterises Gozo Ministry's second year

A public consultation process about the government's eco-island vision was the main focus of the Gozo Ministry's second year in office.

Minister Giovanna Debono said yesterday the initiative generated constructive dialogue that resulted in the drawing up of an action plan to implement the vision.

The aim, she explained, was to safeguard the island's interests and promote economic, social and cultural development while protecting the natural environment and the land's identity. It also included an element of sustainability to continue improving the quality of life while preserving the island's unique characteristics.

The process led to the presentation of over 800 proposals, of which 80 were chosen, covering education, agriculture, the environment and alternative energy. These areas were allocated €25 million over three years in the last Budget.

A joint committee between the ministry and the University has been set up to draw up a plan to convert a government farm into a research centre. Preliminary studies have also been completed to identify renewable energy sources which could be used in Gozo, and discussions are ongoing with foreign companies interested in investing in this project. Moreover, an energy audit is under way to eventually install photovoltaic panels on the roofs of schools and other public buildings.

Cleaning and rehabilitation works have kicked off on more than 30 reservoirs and the ministry is looking into the possibility of converting sewage into second-class water for agricultural purposes.

Preparatory works have also started on the construction of a pool and sports facilities.

Regarding tourism, restoration works were carried out on bastions of the Citadel and a detailed master plan was drawn up. The construction of an interpretation centre at Ġgantija Temples has also been announced.

Mrs Debono explained that her ministry continued with other work related to socio-economic aspects that affect both residents and visitors.

She mentioned two projects: a modern-day care centre for those with disability and an institute of tourism studies to improve the service given to tourists.

She explained that Gozo's double insularity posed particular challenges to employment. Nevertheless, incentives and schemes launched by the government led to the setting up of an electronic card factory. In the last Budget, she continued, other incentives had also been announced, giving small enterprises and the self-employed what she described as positive discrimination.

A boys' secondary school would be built and Gozo hospital would have a radiology department, Mrs Debono said.