‘Better Late Than Never’: PN ON Gozo Channel Fleet Expansion

The Nationalist Party has reacted cautiously to the Government’s announcement of plans to modernise the Gozo Channel fleet through the purchase of two new vessels and upgrades to three existing ferries.

While welcoming the decision in principle, the Nationalist Party described the move as long overdue.

It pointed out that no tender has yet been issued and that the Government remains at an early planning stage, meaning that the new vessels are unlikely to be delivered for at least another three years.

The party also noted that the process to lease a replacement vessel for the Nikolaos has not yet begun.

The Nationalist Party said that the measures announced closely mirror proposals it has been putting forward for years, including the establishment of a task force to assess the infrastructural changes required at Mġarr Harbour.

The party criticised the delay in taking action, arguing that years were lost while Gozitans and Maltese residents relied on an ageing second hand vessel. It expressed concern that the promised solution is being pushed to 2029, despite the need being immediate.

Nevertheless, the Nationalist Party said it hopes the plans will be implemented and are not merely pre election commitments, while also questioning whether the necessary financial approval has been secured.

#MaltaDaily