The Gozo Business Chamber said that it "notes the dire situation at Gozo Channel."

Sometimes, there seems to be a failure to realise the vitality of this service for the Gozitan population, the Chamber said.

"This past period has been hindered by failures in the service, especially in the morning, when this service is most critical for the Gozitan community. The governance and management of this service need to be addressed urgently."

"Overall, vital time is being lost, which puts the Gozitan population in a disadvantaged position. While considerable progress is being made at all levels, when the most vital thing of all i.e. accessibility, is not being addressed, this progress will be lost."

Gozo Channel statement

In a statement later, the company Gozo Channel Operations Ltd. said it would like to clarify that the delays experienced on Tuesday on the journeys between the islands were the result of the weather. "This led to the company's vessels operating from behind Comino, a route which takes longer, but is safer for all those making use of the service."

"To remedy this inconvenience, caused by elements beyond the company's control, it was decided that the service will operate on a shuttle basis rather than according to the schedule."

Gozo Channel said it remains committed to offering the best possible connectivity between the islands as long as the weather-an essential factor in maritime operations-permits.