The Nationalist Party last week said that a new fleet of Gozo ferries is needed, highlighting the age of the current vessels, with three having been in operation for 25 years, and also proposed a study on the possible introduction of a fifth ferry.

The PN took aim at the government's tender process to replace the disliked MV Nikolaos vessel, alleging that it is designed "to block competition and ensure that the MV Nikolaos remains in service." It is quite a serious allegation, to which the government should respond. The MV Nikolaos needs to be replaced, it is not a suitable vessel for the Malta-Gozo channel.

Beyond that, it wouldn't be a bad idea for the government to consider preparing a plan to replace the other existing vessels either. It is true that they are still operating well, but at least coming up with a plan for their replacement, to have such a plan in place before they start to experience problems, would be wise. Leaving it too late would be a mistake.

There is no other viable connectivity option between Malta and Gozo other than sea transport that is worth considering. Pie in the sky ideas like a tunnel or bridge would have a negative impact on Gozo in the long run, aside from the cost which would undoubtedly be very, very expensive.

Overdevelopment is a major issue in Malta. A tunnel or bridge would essentially push the island of Gozo in that direction at a much faster rate than it is already going.

But Gozitans must have a fast and efficient ferry service, one that keeps the inconvenience of travel at the absolute minimum. This would be improved if the MV Nikolaos is replaced by a better vessel.

A study on a fifth ferry is also worth carrying out, to see if it is needed. Perhaps a vessel running from Gozo to another part of Malta, which can carry vehicles, would also be beneficial for Gozitans and the Maltese alike. It could be something worth considering for a fifth vessel should it be decided that one is needed.

As for the proposal to expand the Mgarr and Cirkewwa ports to accommodate more maritime traffic, this needs further study and consideration from multiple aspects, including whether such an investment is needed, and what positive and negative impacts it could have.

While on the topic of sea connectivity, it wouldn't be a bad idea to increase sea connectivity between localities around Malta either, and also incentivising the use of such vessels. This could, if done well, help reduce the use of private vehicles on the road.