Budget 2027: Record €141 Million Allocation for Gozo, Up 15.7%
Gozo will receive a record €141 million allocation under Budget 2027, an increase of more than €19 million, or 15.7%, compared with 2026, according to Minister for Gozo Clint Camilleri.
Speaking at a news conference on the 2027 Budget, Camilleri said the allocation was the largest ever granted to the island and would support investment in transport, infrastructure, education, healthcare, culture and the environment.
“This record allocation confirms the Government's commitment to continuing to invest in Gozo, improving the quality of life of Gozitans and creating new opportunities for future generations,” Camilleri said.
“This Budget sends a clear message that Gozo is at the heart of our country's vision. We are investing in people, in the daily lives of Gozitans and in the future of our children, while continuing to strengthen the island's unique identity, culture and environment.”
Ferry Connections and Electricity Infrastructure
The Minister outlined measures intended to improve connectivity between Malta and Gozo, including free Gozo Channel crossings for Maltese and Gozitan pass holders and revised ticket prices for visitors, who would contribute towards the infrastructure and services they use.
He also referred to improvements to fast ferry services, the issue of a tender for a fourth vessel to replace the Nikolaos, and plans to launch a pre-qualification questionnaire for the construction of new Gozo Channel vessels. A long-term strategic plan for Mġarr Harbour is also being developed.
In the energy sector, planned investments include two 33kV cables between Malta and Gozo and a 132kV interconnector, aimed at improving the security and resilience of the island's electricity supply.
€10 Million for Roads and Village Improvements
Camilleri said the allocation for arterial and residential roads in Gozo had reached €10 million. The investment forms part of a programme to deliver 100 new residential roads over three years, alongside continued work on major routes, including the road between Victoria and Marsalforn and roads in Nadur and Qala.
The Ministry for Gozo will continue regenerating village squares and centres, open spaces and green infrastructure. Projects highlighted include Victoria Park, the regeneration of a playground and modernisation of the bus terminal in Victoria, and the Pjazza tal-Assedju project.
New initiatives will also be launched to plant indigenous trees along Gozitan roads, while afforestation and landscaping projects will continue across the island.
Schools, Sports Facilities and Cultural Projects
The Ministry will continue its programme to renovate and improve educational facilities. Following the completion of new schools in Nadur, Victoria and Kerċem, work will continue at the primary schools in Żebbuġ and Għarb.
In sport, investment will continue in the Sports and Aquatic Pavilion in Victoria, while shooting facilities in Żebbuġ will be modernised. The selection process for an athletics track in Gozo is also expected to begin.
On culture, Camilleri highlighted the Gozo Museum project in Victoria and preparations for Victoria 2031, which he said would promote the island's cultural identity and provide Gozitan talent with greater European and international exposure.
Healthcare Links and Accommodation for Patients' Families
The Minister recalled the recent inauguration of a new helipad connecting Gozo General Hospital with Mater Dei Hospital, intended to improve hospital-to-hospital connectivity and reduce patient transfer times.
He also announced that Villa Lauri in Birkirkara was expected to open the following week, offering accommodation to relatives of Gozitan patients receiving treatment at Mater Dei Hospital.
Camilleri concluded that Budget 2027 would build on Gozo's transformation in recent years, while seeking to balance economic development and modernisation with protection of the environment, local communities and the island's distinctive character.
Photo: DOI / Clodagh O'Neill.
