WATCH | Xtra: Gozo connectivity, economy and governance dominate discussion

Connectivity, economic growth and the future governance of Gozo took centre stage during a discussion on Xtra aired on TVM this Thursday.

Gozo Minister Clint Camilleri argued that Gozo has made a significant progress in recent years, changing from an island with high unemployment to one experiencing economic growth surpassing Malta’s. He noted that unemployment dropped from around 760 people to fewer than 90, while employment increased by 7,000 jobs. “Today, 60% of jobs are in the private sector,” he said, adding that employers are now struggling to find workers and are increasingly turning to foreign labour.

On connectivity, Camilleri described “giant steps” taken by government. He spoke of the increase in Gozo Channel trips from 15,000 annually to over 35,000, alongside the introduction of the fast ferry service, which he said has transformed daily commuting. “Many who used to live in Malta during the week now remain in Gozo and travel daily,” he said.

He also said that work on the Gozo airstrip will start soon. Camilleri said that the 460-metre runway will be capable of handling 11 to 12-seater aircrafts. Camilleri further indicated possible connections to other destinations apart from Malta, and that flying schools would start using the airstrip. 

Meanwhile, the PN's Gozo spokesperson, Edward Said acknowledged the importance of connectivity and praised the fast ferry initiative, but criticised delays in long-promised projects such as the Gozo airfield. He also called for further investment in maritime links, including the addition of more ferries and a dedicated cargo vessel. “For ten years we have had no cargo ship service, forcing trucks to travel via Ċirkewwa,” he said.

The opposition spokesperson raised concerns about the nature of employment growth, arguing that many jobs classified as private are effectively government-funded through schemes and contracts. He also pointed to lower average wages in Gozo compared to Malta, claiming workers often leave private employment for government jobs.

He outlined plans to purchase two new ferries, retrofit existing vessels, and introduce a cargo service from the Freeport.

The debate also touched on governance, with Said proposing constitutional recognition of Gozo as a distinct region with its own elected regional council and executive powers. On public services, Camilleri highlighted investment in education, healthcare and sports facilities, including financial support for Gozitan students and new health centres offering services such as MRI scans.

Said, however, accused the government of failing to deliver on key commitments, including a new hospital and chemotherapy services. He reiterated the Nationalist Party’s stance on the 400 million Euro ‘theft’ by Vitals, who failed to deliver on a new 400 bed hospital.

On planning Camilleri insisted no additional land has been added to development zones, mentioning targeted incentives to support sustainable growth and preserve Gozo’s character. Said countered that the population in Gozo had gone up from below 30,000 to over 40,000 in a few years, and that meant the intensification of development.