The Parliamentary Secretary for Fisheries, Aquaculture and Animal Rights, Alicia Bugeja Said, has announced the beginning of an infrastructural project at the Ġnejna Port, which includes a winch room and a service pillar.

PS Bugeja Said expressed with satisfaction that this project was one of the most requested by the local fishing community, and is finally being launched.

"We listened to the local fishermen who asked for this project to be carried out. Through this work, we will not only respond to their needs, but we are also giving a clear signal that our coastal communities are a priority for us," PS Bugeja Said said.

This project was listed in the government's 2022 election manifesto.

The Parliamentary Secretary stated that local fishermen form an essential part of the country's maritime heritage and identity, and that as a government, "we will remain determined to strengthen this sector through modern infrastructure, quality services and a clear vision for a sustainable future."

"We are committed to continuing to respond to fisheries priorities, as a strong fisheries sector also strengthens coastal communities and our economy in a resilient manner," the junior minister said.

During this announcement, PS Bugeja Said thanked the Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture for its continued work, as well as the Mġarr Local Council for its cooperation.

The Director of the Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture Services, Dennis Sciberras, stated that this project, to develop a winch room and a service pillar in Ġnejna, "reflects the ongoing cooperation and support for the fishing sector in Malta." He said that for generations, "our coastal communities, from Anchor Bay, Mġarr and Ġnejna, have relied on the sea for their livelihood and identity. A total of 519 MFA, MFB and MFC licensed fishermen will benefit from this winch room and service pillar."

Works on this winch room and service pillar in Ġnejna commenced this week to continue improving this important fishing area. This step is expected to substantially improve the working conditions of fishermen, plus a notable upgrade in the facilities for small vessels at Ġnejna Bay.