The necessary balance that respects the values, interests and needs of small islands like Malta and Gozo should be found in the European institutions in the next five years.  This balance is missing  when it comes to the EU’s  one-size-fits-all policy  which goes against Malta and Gozo’s interests, said former Prime Minister Alfred Sant during a series of meetings with social clubs, farmers and tourism operators in Gozo.

Alfred Sant said that the during the last European Parliament legislature, he managed to secure €10 million for the provision of clean air in small islands like Gozo.

“This I did with the help of other MEPs from Croatia, Sicily and Sardegna.”

Referring to Agriculture in Gozo, Sant said that this problem was camouflaged with EU subsidies during the first year’s of Malta’s EU membership. Much more needs to be done to breathe new life among Gozitan farmers. Agriculture should remain the livelihood of farmers and we should encourage young people to pursue a career in this important industry.

At  Ta’ Ċenċ Hotel in Sannat, Alfred Sant lauded the huge investments in recent months by the hotel owners to further upgrade this unique hotel in Gozo.

Sant said enormous progress has been made in the tourism industry in Gozo in the last ten years.

“We must sell Gozo as a separate destination, with publicity specifically focused on these lines. We must improve connectivity between Malta and Gozo, by fast ferry and helicopter. We must safeguard underwater fishing in Gozo, as much as we protect Gozo’s  historical and natural attractions.”

A concerted effort needs to be done to attract cruise-liners to Gozo when they visit Malta.

“Every solution to meet Gozo’s challenges should reflect the need to protect Gozo’s natural and architectural heritage.”

Alfred Sant promised that if he receives popular support in the forthcoming European elections he will continue to voice Gozitan concerns and aspirations in Europe.