The next Budget will address the current licensing system that is being bypassed by many self-catering accommodation spots in Gozo, putting those acting in line with the law at a disadvantage, Finance Minister Tonio Fenech said this morning.
The minister was speaking during a pre-budget consultation business breakfast at the Kempinski Hotel in San Lawrenz.
He announced that a renewable energy scheme that would be specifically targeting Gozitans and Gozitan entrepreneurs would be unveiled in the coming weeks. He said this would be financed mainly by EU funds but gave no further details.
Some of those present expressed concern on accessibility to the sister island, saying this was the main factor that hindered Gozo’s economic development. A number of proposals were discussed.
Joe Muscat from the Gozo Tourism Association wondered why an air strip for small planes was not used and said that while low cost airlines had benefitted the country they had also penalised Gozitan tourism. As the Government assisted low cost airlines, it should also help Gozo Channel, he said.
Lawyer and entrepreneur Joe Ellis wondered why no one had ever suggested a direct catamaran link between Gozo and Grand Harbour.
Some asked about the proposed tunnel linking Malta to Gozo.
Mr Fenech said there were environmental issues about the air strip which had to be looked at. He said he had never heard about the catamaran proposal and one would have to see how feasible it was. On the tunnel, he said that this was at the preliminary feasibility stage and further studies were taking place.
The minister said that, in terms of accessibility, the government would launch a scheme to help Gozo Channel and to encourage more Maltese to visit Gozo, especially in the winter months. He noted that a more varied programme of cultural activities was needed.
Victoria mayor Samuel Azzopardi said he knew people who were willing to invest in Gozo in sectors such as iGaming but who were concerned about internet connectivity issues. He also complained about unnecessary delays in getting documentation through the MFSA.
Mr Fenech said that there was no connectivity issue. The problems mentioned by iGaming companies were that many of their employees wanted to live in entertainment areas. He promised to look into MFSA issue.
The minister also acknowledged a concern raised about capital gains on property and said the government was keeping a close look on situation.
Mr Fenech noted that the government’s investment in the eco-Gozo concept so far had created the equivalent of 32 full time jobs for a year.
He said that a regional child care centre would be opening in Gozo.