Gozo Minister Giovanna Debono distributed around e35,000 (Lm15,000) to more than 110 Gozitan non-governmental organisations. This financial assistance is possible through a scheme launched by the ministry to assist non-governmental organisations operating from, and in, Gozo.

Ms Debono said the government recognises the pivotal role non-governmental organisations play in the social development of society.

Run by volunteers who selflessly invest their own time and money in the organisation of various activities, local NGOs are able to offer their services to the public, with activities ranging from the cultural to the philanthropic.

Ms Debono referred to the ministry’s initiatives in this area, especially through the setting up of the NGO Centre in Xewkija in 1999, followed by the initiative to promote the setting up of the Gozo NGOs Association in 2003 which has just launched its website to further promote and publicise voluntary work in Gozo (www.gozo-ngos.org).

Referring to initiatives taken on a national level, the minister also mentioned that in recent weeks the government enacted the first Law for Voluntary Organisations and appointed the first Commissioner for Voluntary Organisations.