More back-office work to be moved to Gozo – minister

Government was creating new jobs in Gozo by moving back-office work to the sister island, minister Anton Refalo said today at an MCESD meeting for social partners.

Refalo said 26 new posts would be created in Gozo for back-office work.

Refalo discussed a new financial framework for the island, saying Gozo had to have its own regional accounts, something that will be carried out together with the National Statistics Office.

"When it comes to job creation, we found problems that have been accumulating for many years," Refalo said.

Around 3,000 workers and students come to Malta at least once every week from Gozo. "We need a faster ferry service. We plan to carry out two trips in the morning and two in the evening from Mgarr to Valletta. Studies are still underway and we have to ensure that the service provided by Gozo Channel does not get affected negatively."

Fourteen submissions have also been received by the government for the siting of a yacht marina and cruise liner terminal in Gozo. The international call for expressions of interest for the cruise liner terminal and yacht marina closed in September. No cruise liner facilities are available in Gozo other than a buoy for small cruise ships off Xlendi.

Other concerns Refalo raised was the fact that Gozo only had one fibre-optic cable connecting it to the island, the need for more beds for homes for the elderly, and the recent positive tourism figures.

Refalo said that an EU-funded employment aid programme had allowed 175 employers to offer 400 new jobs to Gozitans.