Construction work is currently under way on two projects in Gozo that are being co-financed by the European Union.

Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi on Saturday visited the two projects: the training facility for tourism studies in Qala and the new Crafts Incubation Centre in Ghajnsielem.

The Training Facility for Tourism Studies project involves the demolition of the previous Institute for Tourism Studies (ITS) complex and the construction of a new training facility. The project involves the investment of e1.5 million under the Structural Funds Programme for Malta for 2004-2006, co-financed by the European Regional Development Fund.

It includes the construction of a restaurant, bar, main kitchen, kitchen for training purposes, a reception area, classrooms, laundry, library and facilities for housekeeping and accommodation.

Complementing this project, the government is presently offering a number of courses in Gozo, co-financed through the European Social Fund. The courses, available free of charge to Gozitans over 16 years of age, are being offered in food preparation and production, food and beverage service, housekeeping, bartending and customer care in a temporary institute at Xewkija.

The project supporting the crafts sector in Gozo involves the extension of the existing Wistin Camilleri Gozo Centre for Art and Crafts and the construction and setting up of the first Crafts Incubation Centre in Gozo.

The project, co-financed by the European Regional Development Fund under the Structural Funds Programme for Malta for 2004-2006, involves the investment of around e850,000. The project will house additional classrooms for the existing centre, offices, exhibition space, as well as a number of workshops that will be made available for local craftsmen who would like to set up a business in the production of crafts.

Prime Minister Gonzi said the projects are evidence of the government’s commitment in taking advantage of the island’s opportunities and potential to further improve Gozo as a whole.

Dr Gonzi said the government will be investing further in Gozo through a minimum of 10 per of the EU budget allocated for Malta for 2007-2013 period, as well as further investment from the national budget to continue boosting the economic activity on Gozo while preserving the island’s unique identity.