It was a busy day for the President of the Republic Marie-Louise Coleiro Preca today as she kicked off the L-Istrina fund-raising activities across Gozo – a first for the sister island –the activities set to continue tomorrow.

The President started off with a visit to Ghajnsielem where a Mass was held in the locality’s parish church, which was celebrated by Gozo Archbishop Mario Grech.

Both Ms Coleiro Preca and her husband were welcomed by hundreds of Ghajnsielem residents during a performance put up by a children's choir in the locality.

Gozo Minister Anton Refalo and the mayor of Ghanjsielem were also present for the event.

The President was handed a donation by the local council and the parish church which is to go towards L-Istrina.

Afterwards, the Ms Coleiro Preca visited Qala. The locality’s band club and a folklore group performed during the activities held there. A number of residents welcomed the president and gave a donation.

In her speech in each of the localities she visited, the President stressed that she does not feel she needs to urge the public to donate since she believes that Gozitans are very generous. Instead of urging them to donate funds towards L-Istrina, she thanked all Gozitans. Ms Coleiro Preca said she has no doubt that Gozitans understand the needs of vulnerable persons who require the assistance of the Malta Community Chest Fund, which, every four weeks, forks out around €200,000 to fund specialised chemotherapy services for those in need of such treatment.

She also visited Nadur and Xaghra. Crowds of people welcomed the President on her arrival. Her next stop was at Xewkija. While there, the Int Min Inti song was sung by a choir. The song was written specially for this year’s fund-raising event.

The President is expected to continue with her Gozo tour tomorrow and is to visit Gharb, Rabat Zebbuġ, Ghasri, Kerċem, Munxar, Fontana, San Lawrenz and Victoria.