Mark-Anthony Falzon (The Sunday Times, March 28) disparagingly mentioned the Imperial Gozo Yacht Club (IGYC) in a reference that has no basis in fact or relevance.

The IGYC has never needed a "bale (sic.) out", as he wrote, nor has it ever asked to be bailed out by anyone. Moreover, it is a mystery how he came up with the notion that this is a "desperate" entity.

Simply hurling such offhanded remarks is an ill-thought attempt at mockery of organisations which, nevertheless, are useful and beneficial for some parts of society, even if not meeting the writer's standards.

Although formed less than four years ago, the club has been organising both sailing and social activities and, despite the facilities and size limitations, the club is by far the most active organisation in Gozo in this sport. The Sunday Times itself on several occasions publicised some of the activities organised by the club on its Gozo pages.

While in December 2007 the club successfully organised a unique exhibition of Gozo's traditional sailing craft, the IGYC never received any funds from the Good Causes Fund, regardless of any such reporting in some forums, and notwithstanding that a "contribution" was promised in a commitment letter.

In spite of its limitations, the club continues to serve its mission with its own funds without having to chase others to honour promises.

Consequently, Dr Falzon's allusions to the IGYC were simply incorrect and inappropriate. Next time round he should make it a point to verify things prior to drawing his conclusions.

The club deserves an apology.