I sometimes talk to expats living in Gozo and they tell me every small island north of Scotland has a small airstrip to take fixed-winged small aircraft. It would be hugely beneficial if we could have something like it in Gozo.

It is not true it will encroach on the natural environment. If the existing heliport is extended where construction waste and debris lies, the airstrip should suffice.

Also, the channel ferry service should be liberalised. The Gozo Channel Co. monopoly is stifling Gozo. Imagine if Virtu Ferries were to ferry people and cargo to Valletta. Imagine if a small private company offers a fast ferry service to the Three Cities. It will also benefit Gozo Channel Co. as it will take some load off it.

Obviously, the facilities in Mġarr would have to be changed and upgraded to be able to handle the services resulting from the liberalisation. But if hundreds if not billions of euros can be found for a tunnel, how can the government not find the money to invest in these facilities?

I think the permanent link between Malta and Gozo will be detrimental to Gozo if it is to serve private cars. An underground transport system in Malta connecting to Gozo is the best idea. We should as a country start planning in the long term.

If, at the end of the day, a permanent link to Gozo will be open to private cars, there need to be two lanes each way, apart from a safe line. I do not agree with this sort of permanent link because the geographical barrier making Gozo what it is will be lost forever. Apart from geological issues, the money spent on a tunnel could be better spent to enhance transport facilities and make of Gozo a high-quality destination and ensuring an environment for high-quality jobs.