The government is launching studies on the best manner to protect Marsalforn Bay from the rough weather which occasionally causes damage on the seafront, Finance Minister Tonio Fenech said in the Budget speech this evening.

He said that Gozo will be allocated a total of €74.3 million next year, an increase of €2.3 million from this year.

Government policy, he said, was the development of the potential of this island; sustaining Gozo’s distinct economy; and continuing investment in its economic and social sectors.

Over the coming year, the government will close down the last drainage outfall; provide more recreational spaces for families and afforestation and embellishment projects around the island, including a new public garden in Marsalforn.

It will develop a human resource strategy so that industry needs are better fulfilled; launch an international advertising to promote Gozo as a separate destination and begin research on wind potential as a source of alternative energy in Gozo.

A project will be launched to use the water which is being produced by the drainage purification plant for secondary use, such as agriculture.

Building will start on a covered pool, once the necessary permits are issued. There will also be further upgrading of the roads and the Gozo hospital Dentistry.