The Ministry for Gozo and Planning has launched a refund scheme for emergency accommodation expenses with the aim of providing financial assistance to affected residents who had to spend one or more nights in Malta due to the suspension of the Gozo Channel service during the recent storm.
Storm Harry battered Malta between 19 and 20 January 2026, causing the service to stop operating for a time.
The scheme is intended to offer partial assistance towards the cost of accommodation in hotels, hostels, or other licensed establishments.
Minister Clint Camilleri stated that due to the storm, several Gozitan residents found themselves stranded in Malta and were unable to return to their homes. This extraordinary situation caused inconvenience and unexpected expenses for many families and individuals. He therefore explained that "our priority is to ensure that no Gozitan resident bears a financial burden due to circumstances beyond their control. This scheme reflects the Government's commitment to stand by Gozitans."
Applications can be submitted online through the website https://mygozo.gov.mt/?form=emergency_accomodation_scheme or via the MyGozo App. Applicants are required to provide a valid Identity Card showing Gozo as their primary place of residence, as well as official accommodation receipts indicating the name of the establishment, the dates, and the total amount paid.
The Ministry for Gozo and Planning said it remains committed to safeguarding the needs of Gozitan residents and to intervening in exceptional situations such as these.