The Minister for Gozo, Giovanna Debono, together with other Ministry officials who are currently working on the eco-Gozo project, are currently holding a series of meetings with various groups and other Gozitan entities in connection with the public consultation process, which was launched in this regard. The wide consultation programme includes a wide spectrum of ideas and suggestions from persons and entities coming from various sectors that all have significant relevance to the socio-economic development of the island.

Two of these meetings were held with the Gozo Tourism Association (GTA) and the Gozo Business Chamber (GBC). Representatives of the respective entities submitted their proposals regarding initiatives and other measures which should be taken into consideration during the drafting and implementation process of the eco-Gozo strategy. Both the GTA and GBC represent a wide-ranging membership in their respective sectors.

The Minister for Gozo, praised the initiatives taken by both entities since their inception. Their commitment is therefore also essential in the drawing up of the strategy for this ambitious project which will reach its objectives in the realization of Government's Vision for Gozo which aims to transform the island of Gozo into a sustainable reality.

During these meetings it was stated that this wide consultation, which was launched in July, gave everyone the opportunity to participate through the submission of suggestions and proposals. Following the distribution of a special publication to each Gozitan household, a considerable number of contributions were received either by mail or through the specially set-up website www.eco-gozo.gov.mt. It is envisaged that further proposals will be received following meetings to be held in the coming days with various Gozitan NGO's and other entities together with the Gozitan Local Councils.