Those involved in various sectors of the tourism industry on Gozo had the opportunity to attend an introductory seminar which was intended to give more information related with a scheme for financial aid in connection with tourism related projects in Malta and Gozo, which has been submitted for consideration for co-financing through structural funds. This seminar was held at the Exhibition hall of the Ministry for Gozo and was organised by the Tourism and Sustainable Development unit within the Office of the Prime Minister with the collaboration of the Ministry for Gozo.

The Parliamentary Secretary for Tourism, Mario deMarco, introduced the seminar and amongst other things he explained how this particular scheme is intended to sustain Malta's competitive edge as an important destination in the Mediterranean. The island of Gozo can also be more competitive as a distinct destination with unique characteristics. The Parliamentary Secretary stated that if the tourism product continues to be enhanced and good marketing strategies are adopted, then our country's tourism sector will continue to attain positive results.

Marie Louise Mangion, Head of the Tourism and Sustainable Development unit, explained in more detail the mechanism on which the Grant Scheme for Sustainable Tourism Projects by Enterprise is going to function, and the criteria on which the applications for related projects are going to be considered and evaluated. She said that it is planned that €10 million will be allocated from the Structural Fund Programme for Malta 2007-2013 for this scheme. The scheme's main aim is to strengthen the competitiveness of Malta and of tourism service providers through the promotion of sustainable tourism. The Scheme is built on the concepts of economic development, social cohesion and respect for the environment. It will result in financial aid being given to entrepreneurs or tourist services establishments in order that they may effect projects related to investment in equipment and product upgrading, investment in environmentally friendly measures, investment in information and communication technology, investment in entrepreneurship and marketing. Moreover these projects are to conform with Malta's Tourism Policy.

Daniela Azzopardi officer in charge of the scheme within the same Tourism and Sustainable Development unit, continued by giving detailed information regarding the compiling of application forms and on the process relative to the evaluation and final decisions on the projects eligible for funding. She explained how the evaluation process would be based on a competitive basis spread over three stages with specific criteria giving strength to the eligibility of each particular project.

Mr Mario Calleja, Director General within the Ministry for Gozo, concluded by communicating the message of the Minister for Gozo, Giovanna Debono. The Minister pointed out the fact that through such schemes Gozo would be benefiting from funds over and above the 10 per cent of European Funds specifically addressed for projects in Gozo. It is also a fact that the criteria established through the sustainable tourism concept compliment the vision of Gozo as an ecological island.