Gozo Could Secure A Fourth Ferry If It Applies For EU Funding, MEP Peter Agius Says
Malta has the chance to secure European funding for a fourth Gozo ferry this year, MEP Peter Agius said, urging the government to take immediate action.
Speaking at the national conference “New Ferries for Gozo: What Can Europe Do? What Must We Do?” held at the Kempinski Hotel, Agius stressed that improving connectivity for Gozo should be placed at the top of the national agenda.
“The government can, from this very moment, apply for EU funding to commission new ferries for Gozo under the European Climate Fund, which must be submitted this year,” Agius stated.
“Beyond this, inter-island connectivity must be one of Malta’s top priorities in the next Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) of the European Union.”
PN Pledges Additional Ferry
Backing Agius’ message, Opposition Leader Bernard Grech reaffirmed the Nationalist Party’s full commitment to improving connectivity between Gozo and Malta.
“Gozo deserves better, and we must demand what is rightfully ours. We don’t just make promises—the PN is taking action with real results,” Grech said.
He also pointed out that within months of being elected, Peter Agius published a detailed report on European funding for modern and sustainable ferries. “I want to take this opportunity to thank Peter Agius for achieving in months what the Labour government failed to do for years,” Grech added.
He pledged that a future PN government would introduce an additional ferry and upgrade port infrastructure to ensure a more reliable service for Gozitans.
Experts Highlight EU Funding Success Stories
The conference brought together policymakers, business leaders, academics, and residents to discuss how Malta could leverage EU funding to enhance Gozo’s maritime transport.
Dr. Karl Agius, visiting lecturer at the University of Malta, highlighted how other European islands, from the Balearic Islands to Sicily, have successfully used EU funds to upgrade their transport systems.
Prof. Godfrey Baldacchino, a leading expert on island communities, emphasised that improved ferry services would boost Gozo’s economy and tourism industry. “Connectivity is not a privilege but a right,” he stated.
Michael Galea, President of the Gozo Business Chamber, called for a long-term vision, stressing that Gozo Channel’s aging fleet must be replaced with a sustainable, expanded service.
Kurt Gutteridge, Director of Naval Architectural Services, explained how modern, low-emission ferries could significantly reduce pollution while improving efficiency.
EU Commission Confirms Funds Are Available – If Malta Takes Action
Providing a European perspective, Fotini Ioannidou, Director of Maritime Transport at the European Commission, reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to island connectivity.
She outlined key funding opportunities, including the Cohesion Funds, Horizon 2020, and the European Climate Fund, which could support sustainable maritime projects for Gozo. However, she stressed that it is up to Malta to apply for these funds and make use of available resources.
The conference also featured Cecile Larsen, Project Manager for Ærøfærgerne in Denmark, who presented the EU-funded Ellen project, a fully electric ferry. She showcased how Gozo could follow Denmark’s example in securing EU support for greener transport solutions.
Time To Act: Agius Calls For Urgent Action
Closing the conference, Agius made a call for action, urging the government and stakeholders to move fast before the funding deadline passes.
“This is an opportunity we cannot afford to waste. The EU is ready to help—now we must make the right choices for Gozo’s future,” Agius concluded.
Do you think the government should apply for one of these EU funds?
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