Gozo Business Chamber Calls For Permanent Link As Storm Exposes Island’s Vulnerability | Lovin Malta

The Gozo Business Chamber has stressed that accessibility must remain at the heart of Gozo’s future, following days of disruption that left the island temporarily cut off due to adverse…

The Gozo Business Chamber has stressed that accessibility must remain at the heart of Gozo’s future, following days of disruption that left the island temporarily cut off due to adverse weather.

In a press release, the Chamber thanked Gozo Channel workers, police officers, Civil Protection, medics and other public officials who ensured emergency services continued running and public safety was safeguarded despite the challenging conditions.

The Chamber also highlighted the launch of a new Task Force focusing on the accessibility of Mġarr Harbour and Gozo more broadly. As a member of the Task Force, the Chamber said it will contribute towards addressing long-standing critical issues at the harbour and ensuring necessary infrastructural works are carried out, particularly in view of the planned expansion of the Gozo Channel fleet.

However, the recent weather once again exposed Gozo’s heavy dependence on a single transport link. With ferry services suspended, people were stranded and missed flights and appointments.

The Chamber is now calling for renewed discussion on a permanent link between Malta and Gozo. It noted that the proposal was included in the country’s policy agenda and referenced in the 2023 Gozo Regional Development Strategy, which highlighted the need to reexamine the project.

Importantly, the Chamber said that expanding ferry services and pursuing a permanent link are not mutually exclusive. Instead, it argued that both projects could complement each other and strengthen Gozo’s long-term resilience.

The call now is for a serious and transparent national discussion on how to ensure a more connected and resilient future for Gozo.

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