Gozo Regional Committee Presents Proposals for Gozo’s Sustainable Future at MCESD Meeting

During an MCESD meeting dedicated to the Gozo Regional Committee (GRC), seven influential stakeholders from Gozo represented by ‘Għal Għawdex’, engaged in addressing important proposals that impact Gozo and its residents.

The ‘Għal Għawdex’ coalition is comprised of the island’s three prominent environmental NGOs – Din l-Art Ħelwa Għawdex, Wirt Għawdex, and Għawdix, together with the Gozo Business Chamber, the Gozo Tourism Association, all the 14 local councils in Gozo and the Gozo University Group.

Joining the social partners at MCESD were the Minister for Gozo, Hon. Clint Camilleri, the Minister for Public Works and Planning, Hon. Stefan Zrinzo Azzopardi, and the Parliamentary Secretary for Social Dialogue, Hon. Andy Ellul.

A highlight of the meeting was a comprehensive presentation by Mr. Godfrey Swain, representing ‘Għal Għawdex,’ which emphasised the urgency to safeguard Gozo from overdevelopment and protect its unique heritage and environment with clear proposals.

The presentation underlined the concerns surrounding Gozo’s potential transformation that may erode its unique charm and appeal. Nonetheless, through collaborative efforts, the seven entities reached a consensus on key issues, resulting in the formulation of an eight-point proposal plan which offers a clear roadmap to address the challenges faced by Gozo’s built and natural environments through direct action and call for action to ensure the region’s specific character and quality to preserve Gozo’s identity and value. Moreover, it strives to envision traditional industries, commerce, and a thriving tourism sector of quality.

The contributions of the MCESD social partners provided tangible reactions and support through their expertise and experience and rallied behind the Gozo Regional Committee’s and Għal Għawdex unwavering commitment to Gozo’s and its residents’ ambitions. Recognising that Gozo is an integral part of the Maltese islands and a prime tourist destination, the discussions underlined the significance of a prosperous Gozo in the interest of the overall national economy.

Hon. Zrinzo Azzopardi, Hon. Camilleri, and Hon. Ellul provided updates on the government’s actions on matters raised and expressed gratitude and appreciation for the Gozo Regional Committee’s dedication to being proactive with proposals for Gozo that benefit all its residents.

The presentation which offered valuable insights can be accessed from here.