The creation of a medical hub in Gozo is among the incentives introduced in the Budget in line with government’s commitment to increase investment in the sister island.
The hub will offer medical and educational services allowing Gozo to attract medical tourism. Through this project, the Gozo hospital will also be upgraded, government said.
Government also announced employment incentives in Gozo where employers taking in full-time workers, or switching employees from part-time to full-time employment, would benefit from a refund of €1,000 in social security contributions.
Additionally, between November and March when tourism is low, training will be offered twice a week to workers in the sector. Employers taking part will receive a payment of €30 per day. A park for small and medium-sized enterprises will also be created in Xewkija’s industrial zone.
Between November and March when tourism is low, training will be offered twice a week to workers in the sector
Studies for the airstrip in Gozo are moving forward. The cost benefit analysis carried out so far says that the project is viable and the proposal will now be studied from a planning point of view.
The feasibility study for a bridge linking the two islands has also been finalised by a company owned by the Chinese government. It will be published when the study on the feasibility of a tunnel is also completed by the same company.
The request for proposals for a cruise liner terminal and marina in Gozo is also close to being finalised. Meanwhile, a mooring buoy will be placed outside Xlendi for cruise liners visiting Gozo.
Efforts will continue for the implementation of the master plans for Marsalforn and Xlendi, as well as the refurbishment of The Citadel which is scheduled for completion by the middle of next year. Consultations are also ongoing for the establishment of a law court in Gozo.
A study of the technical and financial feasibility of a submarine fibre optic cable between Malta and Gozo will be completed in the coming months.
The government said it would sustain the Eco Gozo concept through efforts to save water. The Finance Minister pointed to the work carried out in Marsalforn valley but specified no further projects.