The National Statistics regional office in Gozo was inaugurated today following a cabinet meeting held on the sister island earlier.

The aim of the office is to specifically compile data on Gozo.

NSO chairman Leone Ganado said that this strategy will help narrow the gap between Malta and Gozo in terms of socio economic issues.

Gozo Minister Anton Refalo said that the setting up of an office in Gozo is another pledge implemented, adding that the project was implemented due to the fact that the finance minister managed to garner the required EU funds.

He said that the inauguration comes after a cabinet meeting held earlier today which is significant while highlighting that it is important to boast of the number of tourists flocking to the island but it is time to start attracting quality tourists and not simply day trippers only.

Finance Minister Edward Scicluna said that each and every decision cannot be ever taken in a good manner without a strong statistics base.

Gozo Bishop Mario Grech thanked the authorities for this step forward but emphasised that this event should not be recorded as being a regional one only but a national activity as well.

“What is of benefit for the region is of benefit for the whole nation,” he said.