Former Prime Minister Alfred Sant said solutions for connectivity between Gozo and Malta should reflect the needs of Gozitans living in Gozo while protecting the natural beauty of Gozo and Malta. The Maltese MEP, meeting Għarb Labour activists and prospective Local Council candidates in Għarb, Gozo discussed Gozitan aspirations in Europe.

The best solution for fast connectivity between the two islands would have been a subsidised extensive fast ferry service. Unfortunately this project has been caught in legal court procedures. Dr Sant argued in favour of a fourth Gozo Channel ferry to satisfy the ever increasing demand between the two islands, whilst quoting opinion polls which say that the proposed tunnel between Malta and Gozo has the majority support of Gozitans.

Għarb residents told the Maltese MEP that popolation in their village has increased and diversified considerably with more Maltese and foreign residents choosing their village as their permanent place of residence. This led to the opening of new restaurants and accomodation in new farmhouses and boutique hotels.

The Maltese MEP said that the Labour Government deserves all credit for having attracted more tourists and residents to Gozo. Alfred Sant promised that if elected he will keep voicing Gozitan concerns in Europe and will continue to work with MEPs from other European islands to secure more funding for Gozo in the coming years.