On Monday, Finance Minister Clyde Caruana presented the Budget 2025 speech, outlining Malta’s financial plans for the coming year.

Labour Minister for Gozo and Planning, Clint Camilleri, and Nationalist Party Spokesperson for Gozo, Alex Borg, took to social media to share contrasting views on the budget’s impact on the island. While Camilleri celebrated the record funding, Borg raised concerns over the government’s commitment to addressing Gozo’s core challenges.

Camilleri praised the €93 million budget, calling it the largest investment Gozo has ever received. Highlighting a 10% increase over the previous year and a 180% increase “compared to the last Nationalist budget”, he detailed new projects: a Gozo Aquatic and Sports Centre, residential developments in Taċ-Ċawla, road upgrades, a rural airfield, and additional Gozo Channel ferry services.

The minister also cited educational investments in Kercem and Żebbuġ primary schools and a bolstered budget for elder care facilities. Emphasising the Labour Party’s commitment to Gozo, Camilleri argued that their “promises are fulfilled.”

Conversely, Alex Borg expressed skepticism, noting that while Gozo was mentioned in the budget, it was done “passively” with little specificity. He argued that ongoing issues—limited healthcare access, traffic congestion, and reduced job opportunities—remain unaddressed. Borg criticized the government for not prioritizing Gozo’s needs, suggesting that Gozitans often feel treated as “second class” citizens. He concluded with a call for a “new direction” to uplift Gozo, aiming for a Gozo that reflects residents’ aspirations and deserves its “true quality.”

These contrasting viewpoints underscore the political debate on Gozo’s future direction and investment needs.

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European Parliament President Roberta Metsola recently shared highlights from her visits to Maltese schools, including San Andrea School and the Archbishop’s Minor Seminary, underscoring the importance of engaging with the next generation on critical values and sustainable practices.

Metsola, expressed on social media that returning to her former school was an inspiring experience. “It was great to be back, meeting students, listening to their aspirations and expectations,” she shared, assuring followers that “the future is bright!”

At the Archbishop’s Seminary, Metsola engaged with upper secondary students, including members of the student and eco-school councils. Discussions centred on values such as dignity, teamwork, and integrity, all tied to environmental stewardship. For the younger students, Metsola emphasised practical actions like reducing food waste and practicing mindful consumption, demonstrating how individual contributions can benefit both the planet and communities in need.

The Seminary also celebrated her visit, posting on social media, “Her visit highlighted the importance of environmental education and youth involvement in addressing global challenges. We are proud of our students’ passion for sustainability! Let’s keep working together for a more caring and sustainable world.”

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