Alternattiva Demokratika has welcomed the government’s decision to “partially implement AD’s policy” by introducing a shuttle bus service from the airport to Cirkewwa.

AD chairman Harry Vassallo said: “Services such as this are an essential investment in stimulating the Gozitan economy and it is only socially fair that some profits are used to enable more tourists to visit Gozo during what we perceive to be our winter season.

“With the addition of a luggage check-in and handling service, Gozo would be able to attract more independent travellers availing themselves of the new low-cost flights.

“The fact that the government has restricted the provision of this service until only September illustrates how blinkered it is in terms of the enormous potential of ‘winter’ tourism in Gozo. Our winter equates to fine spring weather from the perspective of many of our visitors. AD reiterates the urgent need for the permanent provision of a shuttle bus service to and from the airport and Cirkewwa, preferably to the terminal in Mgarr, finishing in Victoria.”

The decline in tourism has resulted in further unemployment in Gozo and has become a source of grave concern to the community, Dr Vassallo added. However, given that it is still an ideal destination, Gozo warrants much greater autonomous accessibility, he said, and AD believes that direct links between Sicily and other Mediterranean islands directly to the island of Gozo, both by seaplane and by catamaran, should be established.

“Although the Gozo Ministry has so far failed to keep its promised deadline to re-introduce the air-link between Malta and Gozo, Alternattiva Demokratika welcomes the news that a seaplane passenger service will be commencing soon.

“AD stresses that, rather than concentrating all commuting services in Mgarr harbour, the development of a harbour to facilitate passenger seaplanes in Marsalforn is warranted,” said Dr Vassallo.

He concluded by saying: “If the government really believes that Gozo should be marketed as a distinct tourist destination, a direct catamaran and seaplane service from Gozo to Sicily should be explored.

“Innovative thinking and action are required immediately. Gozitans are sick and tired of words – they demand and deserve action.”