The Gozo Business Chamber’s proposals for the Budget 2020

The Gozo Business Chamber has presented a number of proposals for the upcoming budget 2020. These proposals have been presented within the Gozo Regional Committee:

The continuation of the project of the subsea tunnel between Gozo and Malta

The Chamber also proposed that the waste generated by this project should be used for the enlargement of the berthing facilities in Mġarr, Gozo. This project, however, should be accompanied by a holistic plan ensuring the sustainable development of the island of Gozo, such as for example that the green belts between localities are retained and that the unique character of each locality is preserved. The Chamber believes that the present Outside Development Zones (ODZ) in Gozo should not be touched. Accessibility needs to be accompanied by a sustainable develop

ment approach.

Better parking facilities to serve Gozo’s retail facilities in Victoria

Accompanied by a holistic traffic management plan. An underground multi-storey parking facility for Victoria should be considered.

The introduction of the fourth ferry on a permanent basis

Solutions for commercial operators however should also be envisaged. This may include the introduction of a pre-booking system for commercial operators on trips dedicated only to commercial vehicles. This would offer commercial operators the opportunity to better plan their transportation activities between the two islands. The Chamber also notes that more dedicated services for commercial operators may need to be considered.

The introduction of the fast ferry service

The introduction of a helicopter service with a schedule which is aligned to all major flights and with pricing that does not discourage usage.

Setting up of agencies which complement the work of the Ministry for Gozo

The Chamber positively notes the endeavours to set up the Gozo Regional Development Authority. The Chamber is of the opinion that specialised agencies need to be set up to complement the work of the Ministry for Gozo such as Aġenzija Kultura Għawdex and the setting up of an economic development agency. Aġenzija Kultura Għawdex would be a dedicated cultural agency that would ensure a holistic set-up and coordination which is required given the substantial number and calibre of events that are taking place in Gozo. On the other hand an economic development agency would: (a) take over the work related to economic measures of the Ministry for Gozo but would still be answerable to the Ministry, (b) host a one-stop-shop for all the entities related to the economy in Gozo, for example, Malta Enterprise, Business First, Trade Malta and so on and (c) assist enterprises to foster economic growth through participation in EU projects and consortia.

Civil Society The Gozo Regional Committee within MCESD should have an allocated budget and a permanent representation on the island.

Barts Medical School and Health Services

The Chamber notes the positive developments with respect to the Barts Medical School. There should continue to be a strong focus on health services in Gozo to ensure that the required level of service is maintained. Community and economic development are interlinked and strong community services, especially in the health sector, will ensure that Gozo will continue to progress in the right direction. The development of the health sector in Gozo should also be seen in a holistic perspective. Apart from the Barts Medical School one should also consider an area of specialisation which Gozo could eventually focus on in the health sector.

Extension Schemes University Campus

of

Existing

such as the reduced stamp duty for properties purchased in Gozo should continue to apply.

of Malta Gozo

There should be a strategic rethinking of the Gozo Campus with the setting up of a specialised faculty at the Campus with courses which will be offered only from Gozo.