Patrol boat in Gozo for faster rescue operations

A patrol boat was permanently based at Mġarr, Gozo so it could be deployed immediately should its assistance be required in the northern parts of the Maltese islands, Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi said yesterday.

This move would lead to more efficiency and formed part of a holistic plan to strengthen the Armed Forces of Malta’s operations and capacity, Dr Gonzi said during the annual passing out parade.

After 18 weeks of basic military training, 48 recruits yesterday became full-time professional soldiers and will now be posted to the AFM’s five units. Dr Gonzi congratulated the soldiers and told them the army, together with other organisations, had an important role in the recent evacuation of people fleeing war-torn Libya.

“The army responds to all calls for help and saved hundreds of people in difficulty. You saved hundreds – mothers, fathers and children – from the jaws of death. You saved expectant mothers who were facing death,” he said.

The government was committed to strengthening the army’s infrastructure and equipment and even took advantage of EU funds, he added.