Prime Minister Robert Abela, accompanied by the Minister for Gozo and Planning Clint Camilleri, visited the Gozo Football Association (GFA) in Xewkija. During this visit, the Prime Minister not only met with the committee members, but also had the opportunity to speak to the players of the under-14 section at the Gozo Football Stadium.
Prime Minister Abela stressed that sport plays a crucial role in the development of children and young people, not only on a competitive level, but also for the purpose of discipline, to learn to work in a team, and above all for physical and mental well-being. He pointed out that the national plan that is guiding our country until 2050 – the Malta 2050 Vision, gives prominence to sport and physical activity and gives priority to a better quality of life for all so that we have stronger and more resilient communities. The Prime Minister mentioned that the Government is committed to continuing to strengthen sport and sports infrastructure, not only in Malta but also in Gozo.
He made reference to the substantial investment that has been made in sports facilities in Gozo over the past few years to create more opportunities for sportsmen of all ages and to equip the island of Gozo with a high-level sports infrastructure. Apart from financial support to sports associations, the Sports and Aquatic Pavilion in Rabat was opened, improvements were made to the Ta’ Xħajma Racecourse and the Għajn Mellel Shooting Range, and in collaboration with the Gozo Football Association, the Government helped to strengthen football facilities in Gozo.
Prime Minister Abela’s visit took place a day before the start of the Gozo Weekender, as for the second consecutive year Gozo will once again host Maltese Premier League matches at the Gozo Stadium through a collaboration between the Ministry for Gozo and the Malta Premier League. Founded in 1936, the Gozo Football Association runs championships in two divisions and several other competitions, while assisting in the development of players to further strengthen Gozitan football.
Photo: OPM
