For the third consecutive year, Ramla l-Ħamra, Ħondoq ir-Rummien, and Marsalforn have achieved the Blue Flag status. This means that these beaches have met high standards in four main categories: water quality, environmental management, environmental education, and safety.

Minister for Gozo Clint Camilleri said, “For another year, we have managed to maintain and secure three Blue Flags for the island of Gozo. I would like to thank the Beach Management Team, under the supervision of the Intervention Team within the Ministry for Gozo, for their dedicated efforts in maintaining these three Blue Flags and, if possible, we will add new beaches to the list. In fact, this year, the Ministry has applied for the Blue Flag for Xwejni Bay as a quality beach, with plans to obtain the Blue Flag in the coming years.” He emphasized that the Blue Flag is not just a mere flag but a rigorous scrutiny that continues to strengthen Gozo as an island that offers quality and excellence to all its visitors.

In addition to the positive comments given by the jury awarding the Blue Flag Award to these beaches, many activities were held during the past season on these same beaches.

It was explained that among the many works carried out throughout the year, this year an investment was made in a new lifeguard tower for Marsalforn Bay and additional facilities were added to Xwejni Bay, apart from the existing facilities at Ramla l-Ħamra and Ħondoq ir-Rummien. In fact, new information boards have been added to Xwejni Bay, there is a new bathing zone for better health and safety measures, and in the coming days, a new parking area for people with disabilities will be created, as well as various educational activities planned in this area. Furthermore, there are plans for a lifeguard service in the near future.

Minister Clint Camilleri pledged to continue improving the beaches and encouraged the public to observe regulations and keep the beaches clean. “Our coastal areas are essential for our tourism product,” concluded Minister Camilleri.

Present at this conference was also the CEO of Nature Trust Malta, Vince Attard. During the same event, Nature Trust released Claudette, a loggerhead turtle, back into the sea, four years after she was injured by a fishing net.