A tender has been issued for a fourth Gozo Channel ferry to replace the Nikolaos, Gozo Minister Clint Camilleri said, as he outlined a record €141 million allocation for Gozo under Budget 2027, an increase of more than €19 million over the previous year.

Speaking during a press conference on Budget 2027, Camilleri said the allocation was the largest ever granted to Gozo, marking an increase of 15.7% compared to 2026.

He said the government would continue investing in connectivity between Malta and Gozo, including improvements to ferry services, road infrastructure and the island's electricity supply.

Among the measures outlined was the introduction of free Gozo Channel crossings for Maltese and Gozitan passengers using a pass, alongside changes to ticket prices for visitors so that they would contribute towards the infrastructure and services they used.

Camilleri also referred to improvements already made to fast ferry services and said that, in addition to the tender for a fourth vessel to replace the Nikolaos, a pre-qualification questionnaire (PQQ) would be launched for the construction of new Gozo Channel vessels.

He added that a long-term strategic plan for Mġarr Harbour was also being developed.

On energy infrastructure, Camilleri said new investments, including two 33kV cables between Malta and Gozo and a 132kV interconnector, would strengthen the security and resilience of the island's electricity supply.

"This record allocation confirms the government's commitment to continuing to invest in Gozo, improving the quality of life of Gozitans and creating new opportunities for future generations," Camilleri said.

"This Budget sends a clear message that Gozo is at the heart of our country's vision. We are investing in people, in the daily lives of Gozitans and in the future of our children, while continuing to strengthen the island's identity, culture and unique environment."

Turning to road infrastructure, Camilleri said the allocation for arterial and residential roads in Gozo had reached €10 million, with investment continuing under a programme to develop 100 new residential roads over three years.

He said works would also continue on major arterial roads, including the road connecting Victoria and Marsalforn, as well as roads in Nadur and Qala.

The Gozo Ministry would also continue investing in the regeneration of village squares and centres, open spaces and green infrastructure.

Among the projects mentioned were Victoria Park, the regeneration of the playground and modernisation of the bus terminal in Victoria, and the Pjazza tal-Assedju project.

Camilleri also announced new initiatives to plant indigenous trees along Gozitan roads, while afforestation and landscaping projects would continue across the island.

In education, the minister said the government would continue its programme to renovate and improve school facilities in Gozo.

Following the completion of new schools in Nadur, Victoria and Ta' Kerċem, works would continue at the primary schools in Żebbuġ and Għarb.

Camilleri also outlined further investment in sports infrastructure, including continued works at the Sports and Aquatic Pavilion in Victoria and the modernisation of shooting facilities in Żebbuġ.

He said the selection process for an athletics track in Gozo would also begin.

On cultural investment, Camilleri referred to the Gozo Museum project in Victoria and ongoing preparations for Victoria 2031, which he said would strengthen the island's cultural identity and provide opportunities for Gozitan talent at European and international level.

The minister also referred to the recently inaugurated helipad connecting Gozo General Hospital with Mater Dei Hospital, saying the facility was improving connectivity between the two hospitals and allowing patients to be transported more quickly.

He announced that Villa Lauri in Birkirkara was expected to open next week, providing accommodation for relatives of Gozitan patients receiving treatment at Mater Dei Hospital.

Camilleri concluded by saying that Budget 2027 would continue building on developments in Gozo over recent years, while seeking to balance economic growth and modernisation with the protection of the environment, local communities and the island's distinctive character.