Alternattiva Demokratika is once again emphasising the need for direct links from Gozo to Sicily and other Mediterranean destinations be it by seaplane, ferries and catamaran operators.

AD spokesperson for Gozo Victor Galea said, "Yet another summer has arrived and a direct catamaran service from Sicily and other Mediterranean islands to Gozo is not yet in operation. We encourage the tourism and business communities in Gozo to take up our proposal and push for such a service if we truly want Gozo as a distinct tourist destination."

"Tourism in Gozo warrants more than eleventh hour pre-election reprieves. Gozo needs a clear and reliable strategy in which all stakeholders participate with confidence and from which they expect returns. Gozo business could benefit from direct visitors from Sicily while Gozo could advertise itself as the ideal location from which to enjoy the history, architecture and archaeology of both Malta and Sicily. Moreover, such type of direct sea links between Sicily, Tunisia and Gozo, for example, are totally in harmony with the Green Party's and government's proposal for Gozo as an eco-island," emphasized Victor Galea.

AD Chairperson, Prof. Arnold Cassola stressed that "Being in the EU and Schengen means that there would be no need for complex customs procedures, nor any currency complications. It should not require any special permissions as EU citizens enjoy the right of free movement within the Union."

Referring to the illegal departure tax, the Green Party Chairperson concluded that "In order to make these links viable, the illegal maritime departure tax still being levied on catamaran and boat trips to Sicily by the Maltese government, should be immediately removed. Innovative thinking and action are required immediately. Gozitans are sick and tired of words - they demand action!"