A masterplan to ensure a sustainable future for the diving industry as part of the tourism product, was launched for public consultation today.

Tourism Minister Mario de Marco said the plan was drafted after a consultation process with interested parties in the sector, and public comments were now being invited during the four-week consultation period.

He stressed the importance of the diving sector for Malta's tourism product, saying it attracts some 60,000 tourists to Malta every year.

He said the plan includes a strategy to further improve the 21 diving sites in Malta and Gozo, such as through better access. Other areas in the plan include promotion.

Dr de Marco noted that Malta has some of the cleanest bathing water in the Mediterranean, and Malta is the first country to treat all its sewage before it is dumped into the sea.

Kevin Fsadni, representing the Malta Tourism Authority, pointed to other projects currently under way as part of efforts to improve the tourism product. They include the €15.6m aquarium project in Qawra, the garden being built in Pembroke, close to some of Malta's top hotels, and the restoration of Madliena Tower. All are being co-financed by the EU.

The diving plan can be viewed at www.mta.com.mt and suggestions may be filed at divingmasterplan@mta.com.mt

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