Representatives of ‘The Association of Gozitan Employees in Malta’ met Dr Alfred Sant, Head of the Labour Delegation of the European Parliament in Xewkija, Gozo where they explained the social and economic realities which they encounter on a daily basis. The Association’s aim is to safeguard, facilitate, and improve the rights, interests and working conditions of Gozitan employees working in Malta. More than 7000 Gozitans work in Malta, 3000 in the private sector and 4000 in the public sector.

“We are a minority within a minority. We would appreciate if you voice our concerns on a European level.” the Association’s members told Sant explaining the challenges and problems they face whilst crossing daily from Gozo to Malta.

Sean Zammit said Gozitans crossing daily between the islands calculate they lose 48 days a year apart from the rising costs in transportation, referring also to the high rise in rents in Malta.

The Maltese MEP invited the Association to launch a study on existing problems and transport expenses and propose their own solutions for the consideration of the competent authorities.

Sant said that together with other MEPs representing UE islands he proposed the implimentation of projects for the consideration of the EC and that together with a Croatian MEP representing Croatian islands they convinced the Commission to finance a €12 million project for clean air in EU islands.