Liberalise transport between the Islands

As was done in all sectors: air travel, retail sector, etc. There are no remaining monopolies except, unbelievably, the Gozo Channel.

Dr Alfred Sant is reported to have said that EU rules do not permit state aid to the fast ferry service between the islands, so it is up to Gozitans to find solutions. But many Gozitans keep mum about many things: it is the culture; a bad one I am sure which puts us at a disadvantage.

I advocate the liberalisation of transport between Malta and Gozo – let several companies operate. Their operations can be inter- woven with the necessary infra- structure being built to operate services not only to Cirkewwa but alsoValletta, Sliema, Pieta, the Three Cities etc. I am sure the private sector will wow us: make us walk on water literally. And what about air transport? Just double the existing runway by using the land adjoining the heliport covered with debris and you have an airstrip which can be used by small fixed-wing aircraft.

This is more realistic than the tunnel and is a solution until the time comes to decide on whether the tunnel is feasible and sustainable and would improve Gozo’s lot.

Joe Portelli Nadur