The dream of connecting the island of Gozo with that of Malta via a tunnel could well be realised some time in the future and I wish it well.

What is urgently needed right now is a decent terminal at Ċirkewwa to mirror the one erected at Mġarr a few years ago. The Ċirkewwa reclaimed area has been surrounded for many years by a wall presumably for construction of a proper terminal but there is no evidence of any work going on. Significantly, nothing has appeared in the Budget for this year for any expenditure in connection with this terminal.

Passengers disembarking from the ferry at Ċirkewwa have to make a long circuitous march to the buses, whatever the weather. Passengers arriving at the terminal to board the boat are faced with a primitive structure which offers no protection from the elements, not even basic personal necessities or any other comfort whatsoever.

The Ċirkewwa terminal is obviously very low on the priority list of projects. It is immensely important that this be given the priority it deserves. Talk of a tunnel should not sideline the importance of having an adequate terminal constructed without delay.

It is important for Gozitans and to both external and internal tourists visiting Gozo.