GozoNews.Com

Speaking at the annual national conference of Heritage Malta held at the Grand Hotel in Ghajnsielem, Tourism Minister Francis Zammit Dimech said that the Ggantija temples in Xaghra was the most visited historical site in Gozo and Malta with a total of 150,721 visitors in the last year.

Dr Zammit Dimech added that this year’s budget for tourism and culture was increased by 40 per cent over last year’s budget with Lm4,435,000 of EU Structural Funds for 2007-2013 scheduled for product development, Lm3,150,000 for Malta and Lm1,280,000 for Gozo.

The minister said that Heritage Malta is exploring the possibility of introducing distance learning in Gozo and producing a training programme in conservation for students in Malta and Gozo, whilst strengthening its collaboration with the University’s Gozo Centre to explore further possibilities of education in cultural heritage in Gozo.

Heritage Malta was also working with various stakeholders for the further enhancement and conservation of Gozo’s cultural heritage.

Dr Zammit Dimech said that key corporate objectives include the realisation of plans with Wirtna for the opening of further shops, including one in Ggantija, finalising the agreement with Munxar council for the joint operation of the flour mill at Xlendi, and the conclusion and implementation of the Abbatija tad-Dejr agreement with Din l-Art Helwa.