Flowers were laid on a monument in Zewwieqa in Gozo this morning to mark the 61st anniversary since 23 persons died when a luzzu foundered in rough seas.
The tragedy - the worst in peacetime in Gozo - happened as the luzzu was approaching Mgarr at the end of a rough crossing from Malta. Just four people who were on board managed to swim to shore.
This morning's ceremony started with wreath laying by Gozo Minister Giovanna Debono on the simple monument which lists the names of all the victims. It was followed by Mass by Ghajnsielem Archpriest Frankie Bajada on a Gozo Channel ferry. Flowers were also thrown in the sea at the spot where the tragedy took place in 1948.
Those present included relatives of the victims.