PL Leader Joseph Muscat has dedicated today to tour the sister island Gozo and once more adress the various issues that pertain to the island.

Speaking at a press conference at Xaghra the PL leader pledged that a special framework for investment in Gozo will be introduced in conformity with EU regulations; with the aim of attracting more investment in Gozo and help generate new jobs and productivity. Dr Muscat argued that more Gozitans already employed in the Maltese Public Sector will be transferred to Gozo should they wish to do so. This can be achieved by moving more back office operations to the neighbouring island, he said.

Joseph Muscat explained how new entrepreneurs will benefit from a start-up tax credit of €50,000 or 25% of the amount invested including the salaries paid in the first two operational years of the new business. This tax credit can be used over a period of four years. Business people who offer new jobs over an indefinite contract or on contracts longer than three years will received back from the Government €5,000  off each salary paid.

The PL leader also addressed the issue of accessibility between Malta and Gozo, explaining that a PL government will look into the possibility of a permanent link between the islands.

With the introduction of a Public Service Obligation 3,000 students and employees will benefit from faster sea transport services which alongside cheaper tariffs will increase accessibility and further incentive business in Gozo.

The PL leader held that he is aware of the state of abandonment the Gozo General Hospital (GGH) has been left in and a new PL Government will be investing in modern equipment and more autonomy in the running of this Hospital. This will include the availability of Chemo Therapy which will be given in Gozo, whilst studies will be carried out to convert part of GGH into a medical educational facility.

Through public-private partnerships a Cruise Liner Terminal will be developed in Gozo in order to help generate further jobs. A PL Government will also ensure that more investment will reach Gozo Craft’s Village.

A judge will be appointed so Appeal Cases will be heard in Gozo saving residents travelling time, with the same measure being applied to MEPA sittings.

Educational and sport resources will be looked into by a new PL Government including the possibility that exams will be held in Gozo for Gozitan students and that the rights of the residents will be protected through the representation of these residents in Dar Malta in Brussles.

Dar Emmaus

The PL events in Gozo continued with a visit to Dar Emmaus, which shelters victims of domestic violence and their children.

During the visit the Dr Muscta explained that this was not a political visit but a show of support by PL towards those that contribute towards the protection of vulnerable people, and in the coming days the PL will be publishing the party’s proposals for this sector.