The island, he added in a statement, should be advertised as a separate destination with natural and cultural heritage so those working in the Gozitan tourism sector do not continue to suffer from the lack of tourists.

In the light of statistics showing tourists in Gozo, these only accounted for less than two per cent of the whole Maltese tourist industry, the Labour MP said. Tourist operators in Gozo should have an active part in decisions taken regarding tourism in the Maltese islands.

The government should make sure the transport service between Malta and Gozo is efficient because tourists must visit Malta’s sister island all year round and spend more money.

“The government cannot neglect Gozo anymore,” said Mr Bartolo. Projects are needed

to embellish the island and

conserve its heritage before it is left in ruins and lost forever, he concluded.