PN administration ‘failed to convince’ EU on Gozo’s regional requirements

The Nationalist administration had failed to convince the European Union that Gozo should be recognised as a region, Prime Minister Joseph Muscat said.

According to documentation which he waved in his hand, in October 2012 the EU told the government that the argument brought forward to have Gozo recognised as a region “was not satisfactory”.

“Simon Busuttil must shoulder the responsibility for the PN’s failure to convince the EU that Gozo deserved more. And, because it was close to the election, the EU’s decision was kept under wraps.”

The Prime Minister insisted that the Labour government will do his utmost to have Gozo recognised as a region.

Addressing a political activity in Rabat, Gozo, Muscat said it was a “symbolic choice” of the Labour Party to launch its candidates in Gozo.

Earlier in the day, the Prime Minister held a press conference at Fort Chambray during which he described the party’s “strong and diverse group of candidates” as the best choice for the Maltese electorate.

“Gozo is benefiting from this government’s work in ensuring that more activities are held. This has resulted in an increased number of tourists crossing to Gozo,” he said.

Muscat said that, under a Nationalist administration, the number of unemployed in Gozo increased by 8% while during Labour’s first year, 200 new jobs were registered.

He reiterated that Gozo would have a new cruise liner terminal and studies were ongoing for an airstrip. Muscat also said that the Nationalist administration had committed €16 million less than what actually should have been allocated for Gozo.

“And during our first year, we made sure that this is corrected,” he said.

Muscat said that negotiations were underway and in the coming days, the government would be announcing a project that would be of benefit to both Maltese and Gozitans.

He lambasted the PN leadership for “failing to take stands” on a number of issues, including spring hunting.

“You know where you stand with us. We promised spring hunting and the season was opened. And like we promised the hunters, we will keep our promises with the trappers.”

Urging the Gozitans to vote for the Labour candidates, Muscat said the 2013 general elections result should not be an exception but should be a continuity.

The event was also addressed by former parliamentary secretary Franco Mercieca, who was welcomed by a standing ovation, and PL MEP candidate and Gozitan Clint Camilleri.

In his first public address during a political activity since the Cabinet reshuffle, Mercieca paid tribute to the “good relationship” he and the Prime Minister enjoy.

“I understand why the PN would choose to attack me, claiming I used to hold the Prime Minister hostage… what can they criticise about this Labour government? We had a positive budget and we are keeping our promises. Because they can’t attack national policies, they turn their guns to the individuals,” Mercieca said.

He urged the electorate to vote for the Labour candidates because “they are the ones who will safeguard our national interest”.