Informed sources at the ministry told TMID that the report is in line with the Malta Council for Economic and Social Development’s document on Malta’s competitiveness, drawn up by economist Gordon Cordina.

Dr Cordina’s report is being discussed at MCESD level and put forward as the basis of a tripartite social pact. Sources said the Gozo report could be discussed in this context as well.

The document should be ready by 7 September, TMID was told. It will be presented to Cabinet and the social partners and will also be

discussed with the Gozo Business Chamber and Tourism Association.

The main areas dealt with in the report will be Gozo’s peripheral socio-economic position and double insularity, as well as niche economic

sectors such as tourism, manufacturing and services. The latter sector is being given great importance, the sources said.

In this connection, the strategy will also include an analysis of information and communications technology (ICT) and how this can be exploited in both the social and economic spheres. ICT is being seen as a major tool with which to overcome Gozo’s insularity, especially in the service sector.

Following preliminary considerations, this sector will be discussed with the IT and Investments Ministry. There are other areas considered in the report, including education, employment and community services, that will involve other ministries.

Apart from this report, work is also being carried out on proposals for the next rounds of EU structural funds for the period 2006-2013. Gozo qualifies for NATS 3 regional funds and the report, which is separate from the socio-economic development strategy, will draw up a number of proposals for projects eligible for these funds. Once completed, the report will be presented to the EU regional committee.