New year – greater prospects

The year 2019 is coming to an end. It has been a year filled with highs and lows but, overall, we have continued to enjoy a prosperity the likes of which had not been seen in long decades. This is all thanks to this government’s long-term vision and continued drive to implement its electoral manifesto that has been time and again approved and endorsed by an overwhelming majority. The Labour government’s goals for 2019 were finalised way beyond the expected time-frames and the 2020 Prosperity with a Purpose Budget promises continued economic successes and further improvements in the quality of life of each and every one of us in the coming year.

One nation for solidarity

The wonderful and positive show of unity, solidarity and love that proves our real identity as Gozitans and Maltese in this year’s L-Istrina has shone through once again. We are a small nation with a big heart and our ancient cultural and social heritage has proven that no matter what – we are one nation and one people.

We are a united people that is at its strongest in the best and worst of times. The collective memory, handed down to us over the millennia by our forefathers, is strong, healthy, vibrant and immutable. Our uniqueness stems from our distant past. We have been ruled by the greatest civilisations in history, have fought and won their wars and yet, we have remained Gozitans and Maltese, with our own language, identity and values.

We are one of the smallest nation states on earth but as a people, we have earned international respect and have contributed to the global common good in diverse sectors worldwide. This is all thanks to our altruism, love, generosity and true belief that by loving our neighbours and understanding each other better, we can overcome all barriers - economic, political and social - and make our country a better place to live in.

New beginnings

It is well known that any new beginning is forged from the shards of the past, not from its abandonment. With the new year around the corner, this is important for us to understand and on the whole we do. As a nation we must build on the good, learn from past mistakes and commit ourselves to support each other, and pass on our values to future generations. We have the courage to defend these values no matter what for the common good.

This government is committed to continue working hand in hand with all those who have the well-being of society at heart, irrespective of their status or political belief. Labour’s long term vision is built upon the conviction that the socio-economic success of the last years can only pull through with the full cooperation and initiative of the private and community sectors.

Our national identity and heritage are key to our continued success. No matter how turbulent and disruptive circumstances can be, our innermost being is intrinsically wired towards unity, solidarity, generosity and love for one another. This spirit flows like a deep and powerful river through the history of our nation. With the necessary changes and improvements, we will together continue to push towards the betterment of our society in the year to come. Our national spirit will prove to be the energy that binds us together and sets us apart from other nations as a unique a successful people that is proud of its heritage and abilities.

Gozo 2019

Gozo’s prospects for the new year are positive and encouraging. The last 12 months have seen a vast improvement in the island’s infrastructure and general outlook. The projects and initiatives implemented by my ministry as Team Gozo, and inter-ministerial endeavours in collaboration the various stakeholders, has given fruit.

The government’s aim to create jobs in Gozo is tangible. Despite all challenges, this confirms our commitment towards fulfilling our pledge of securing more jobs for Gozitans on the island.

The hugely improved sea connectivity since last June and the current strengthening of technological links complement the island’s needs. The now established all-year-round events organised by my ministry in collaboration with Gozitan enterprises and NGOs have proven that hard work and diligent planning are key to our continued success. Recently published figures show that Gozo GDP continued to grow and the increase was a significant 13% over the previous year. This is 4% higher when compared to the 9% growth in GDP nationwide. This means that Gozo registered the greatest economic growth of all times.

Braced up for 2020

Most definitely, we will not be resting on our laurels. There is much to do, projects to finalise, opportunities to grasp and new concepts to introduce. The

Gozo Ministry’s ambitious holistic project for our island is an ongoing project and its direct contribution to the national economy will be sustained in the coming year. It all depends on continuing to work together to ensure better prospects for our community.

I wish each and every one of you a prosperous New Year filled with respect and goodwill. I look forward to continue in my efforts to sustain Gozo at the very top of the national agenda. I do this in full trust of all those of goodwill, so that we can together be confident that 2020 will bring further successes to our beautiful and beloved Gozo.