A permanent link between Malta and Gozo would extinguish Gozo’s soul, because Gozo is an island which will no longer be.

I am not saying that we should not alleviate the problem of transportation across the channel, which can be much more efficient than it is.

Why is the monopoly still standing? Why cannot other companies, using catamarans for example, be allowed to work alongside Gozo Channel Company? Is competition not healthy?

Why is there no air service, which would greatly reduce travelling time?

I think the middle way is best: To facilitate access to and from Gozo but not to the extent of a permanent link. I suspect that many Gozitans are so desperate that things cannot improve that they opt for a permanent link out of frustration. The waiting time is horrendous and now the queues are building up too.

But can we not consider alternatives to a permanent link?

Cannot the money spent in providing the permanent link and its running costs be invested in Gozo and in transportation between Malta and Gozo?

Do people not see that Gozo will become like Malta in all things? Right now it has a physical and natural barrier.

Why are we continuing to ruin Gozo’s natural heritage with Mepa’s benevolent eye? Mepa is not an authority; it is not environmentally friendly; it has no long-term plan; it does not really have Malta at heart. Why are we continuing to ruin Gozo’s natural ridges? Why do continue to believe that the only motor for the economy is building ODZ? Is this sustainable development? I do not think so. Speak out, all of you who have the natural environment at heart. Speak out with your vote.

Change the heart of politics in Malta: you can do it if you want to. Otherwise, you are guilty of not speaking out and letting our nature go to ruin.

Joe Portelli

Nadur