The Gozo Tourism Association reiterates its stand for the urgent development of an air link between MIA and Gozo. Investment in connectivity infrastructure reduces double insularity, both physical and economical, the GTA said.

The Gozo Tourism Association was referring to comments made by Labour MEP Dr Alfred Sant, criticising the development of an airfield on Gozo.

The absence of such a link is justice delayed with the connectivity between Malta and Gozo and with the Gozitan socio economic growth, the GTA said. Some of our politicians have to understand that the sea and air links are the roads that connect the two islands of Malta and Gozo.

With the same argument was it an absurd idea that along the years the much-needed improvement on the roads network on the Maltese Islands was carried out with millions upon millions being invested in numerous road projects?, the GTA remarked.

In this regard which road on the Maltese islands is commercially and financially viable? All roads in the Maltese islands needed the capital outlay to build and now require funds for their ongoing maintenance, without charging any tolls from the users. The same applies to the sea and air links between Malta and Gozo. That is why the present ferry service between Mgarr and Cirkewwa is supported by a public service obligation contract (PSO).

That is why Government is presently discussing with the EU a similar public service obligation contract to cover the fast ferry service between Mgarr and Valletta. The Gozo Tourism Association fully supports the Ministry for Gozo initiative to develop the rural airfield on Gozo. The Gozitan touristic sector and the inhabitants of Gozo have been deprived of an airlink for almost two decades now. This prime industry on Gozo and the Gozitans deserves much better.